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  • Centre constructs 16,207 km of highways, sanctions ₹69,342 crore for railway projects in Northeast

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Central Government has constructed 16,207 km of National Highways and sanctioned ₹69,342 crore for railway projects to bolster infrastructure and accelerate economic development in the Northeastern Region (NER), the Parliament was informed on Thursday.

    Minister of State for Development of North Eastern Region Sukanta Majumdar told the Rajya Sabha that the Ministry of Railways has approved 12 railway projects – including 8 new lines and 4 doubling projects – spanning a total length of 777 km, either partially or fully within the NER. Of this, 278 km have already been commissioned, and ₹41,676 crore has been expended up to March 2025.

    Under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), the government has sanctioned 17,637 road works covering 89,436 km and 2,398 bridges in the Northeast. Out of these, 16,469 road works (80,933 km) and 2,108 bridges have been completed, the Minister added.

    To enhance digital connectivity in remote and rural areas of the Northeast, several initiatives have been undertaken with support from the Digital Bharat Nidhi. As many as 6,355 Gram Panchayats have been made service-ready under the BharatNet project. In addition, 3,297 mobile towers have been commissioned in the region under various government-funded mobile connectivity schemes.

    The Ministry of Civil Aviation, through the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, has significantly improved regional air connectivity by operationalising 90 routes in the Northeast. These routes connect 12 airports and heliports across the region, aiming to make air travel more accessible and affordable for the masses.

    Further, the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) is providing financial assistance to all eight Northeastern states for developmental projects related to infrastructure, connectivity, and communication, under five Central Sector Schemes.

    A key initiative in this regard is the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE). This 100% centrally funded scheme, launched with a total outlay of ₹6,600 crore, is scheduled to run from 2022–23 to 2025–26. The scheme focuses on funding infrastructure projects in line with PM GatiShakti, supporting social development, and promoting livelihood opportunities for youth and women, while addressing developmental gaps in critical sectors.

    The DoNER Ministry is also providing financial support to boost tourism development across the eight Northeastern states through its various Central Sector Schemes.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Government cracks down on water mafia

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo has reaffirmed government’s commitment to tackling the growing challenge of water infrastructure sabotage and criminal activities of the so-called “water mafia”, who continue to violate citizens’ constitutional right to water access.

    Speaking during a webinar hosted by the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), Mahlobo described the destruction, vandalism and extortion within the water sector as acts of “economic sabotage that preys on the most vulnerable and obstructs the country’s developmental goals”.

    He highlighted how criminal syndicates, often in collusion with unscrupulous individuals, are deliberately disrupting water supply networks, including damaging pump stations, pipelines, and valves. They then profit by selling water through tankers at inflated prices.

    “These activities not only cripple infrastructure but also endanger public health, inflate municipal budgets through recurring repair costs and degrade the dignity of affected communities,” Mahlobo said.

    The webinar held this week under the theme: ‘Sabotage of Essential Water Infrastructure and Water Mafias: What Can Be Done?’, focused on initiatives underway to address the sabotage of essential water infrastructure and water mafias.

    Mahlobo noted that the widespread and coordinated criminal operations have led to water outages due to the theft of critical components like pipes, cables and meters.

    He warned that the problem is not only limited to urban centres but is emerging across the country and requires urgent, coordinated and forceful action.

    He said department would intensify its collaboration with law enforcement agencies and all levels of government to ensure that those behind the sabotage are identified and prosecuted.

    “We will not tolerate the deliberate sabotage of our water infrastructure. These criminal acts are an attack on our constitutional democracy and our commitment to human rights.

    “There will be no hesitation in acting against those responsible. We are closing the space for criminals to operate, and we will pursue them relentlessly through law enforcement, community mobilisation and with the full weight of State institutions,” the Deputy Minister warned.

    Mahlobo underscored the importance of community participation in protecting infrastructure. He urged citizens to report suspicious activities, support educational campaigns, and embrace a culture of whistleblowing to expose criminal networks and corruption within the water sector.

    He also called for a culture of whistleblowing, encouraging individuals with knowledge of criminal networks or corruption in the sector to come forward, adding that their role is vital in rooting out entrenched criminality.

    The Deputy Minister outlined the department’s comprehensive response, including the implementation of the 2025 National Water and Sanitation Indaba resolutions, which prioritise infrastructure protection strategies, public education campaigns and partnerships with law enforcement.

    “Communities are also being urged to embrace innovation, as municipalities begin deploying technology such as surveillance systems, remote sensors and smart infrastructure to detect and prevent sabotage.”

    Mahlobo called on all South Africans, particularly civil society, organised labour, water activists, conservation groups and traditional leaders, to unite against the sabotage of national infrastructure.

    “All acts of theft, vandalism or extortion should be reported without delay to local law enforcement or municipal security authorities,” he said.

    Mahlobo reaffirmed government’s stance that water access is a non-negotiable human right and “must never be held hostage by criminals”.

    “Water is life, and no criminal syndicate will be allowed to hijack the public’s right to it. We are acting decisively, and we urge every South African to be part of the solution.

    “We must defend this resource together. Through strong partnerships, community vigilance and courageous whistleblowing, we will protect our water and secure our future,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Gauteng Education provides update on municipal debt payment 

    Source: Government of South Africa

    The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has paid R426.27 million of the R426.45 million that was owed to municipalities and Eskom for schools without Section 21(1)(d) functions. 

    “As of 30 June 2025, the GDE had successfully paid a total of R426.27 million, representing 99.95% of the R426.45 million that was owed to municipalities and Eskom for schools without Section 21(1)(d) functions. The small outstanding balance of R175,853.61 (0.05%) was due to a delay resulting from updates to the Standard Chart of Accounts (SCOA), a reform implemented by the Provincial Treasury to improve public financial management systems,” the provincial department said.

    Earlier this month, the department reiterated that, in line with legislation, schools – specifically those granted Section 21 functions – are entrusted with managing their own finances. These schools are responsible for a range of functions, including the payment of municipal services such as electricity and water.

    READ | Gauteng Education allocates funds to schools 

    This as the department provided an update on the fulfilment of its commitment to settle all outstanding municipal debts owed by schools as of 31 March 2025 and outline critical infrastructure interventions aimed at addressing overcrowding across the province’s public schools.

    In its update on Thursday, the department confirmed that the remaining balance will be paid during the scheduled payment runs between 25 July and 8 August 2025. 

    “This payment will bring the total settlement to 100%, thereby closing the commitment made in April 2025,” it said.

    The GDE provides annual allocations to schools in accordance with the Amended National Norms and Standards for School Funding. School Governing Bodies (SGBs) are guided through circulars and compliance workshops to ensure appropriate usage of these funds and are expected to supplement state resources to ensure sustainability.

    Currently, the GDE retains direct financial oversight of 40 schools in the province that have not been granted Section 21 functions. 

    “As of 30 June 2025, these schools collectively owed R105,391.24 in municipal debt. The department confirms that none of these schools experienced any water or electricity disconnections and continues to monitor and manage service payments on their behalf. The department reaffirms its commitment to ensuring no public school in Gauteng is or will be disconnected from water and electricity due to unpaid accounts,” it explained.
     

    Overcrowding 

    As part of efforts to address overcrowding in provincial schools, the department has allocated R2.8 billion in the 2025/26 financial year toward school infrastructure. 

    “Of this allocation, R1.489 billion is dedicated to the construction of new and replacement schools; R615 million will support upgrades and additions, including mobile classrooms and self-build projects; R166 million is earmarked for refurbishment and rehabilitation; and R476 million is allocated for maintenance interventions.”

    The GDE’s approach to overcrowding combines various infrastructure strategies, including the construction of new schools on available sites, brick-and-mortar self-build classroom projects within existing schools, and the provision of mobile classrooms where immediate relief is required. 

    It added that it procures mobile classrooms are procured directly and not through monthly lease agreements, ensuring cost-effectiveness in their deployment.

    To accelerate school infrastructure delivery in high-pressure areas, the department is exploring a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

    Under this model, private sector partners would finance, design, build, and potentially operate or maintain public schools for a defined period, with the department amortising payments over time. This model aims to unlock private capital, fast-track delivery timelines, and ensure long-term sustainability while maintaining public oversight and accountability.

    MEC Matome Chiloane said the department remains committed to ensuring sound financial governance.

    “As the department, we remain committed to ensuring sound financial governance, transparency, and service continuity in all public schools. We call on all education stakeholders, particularly parents, communities, and School Governing Bodies, to continue working closely with the Department to deliver quality learning environments across Gauteng,” he said. –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Western Cape school transfer applications to open on 4 August

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Parents in the Western Cape, who wish to apply for a school transfer for their children for the 2026 school year, can submit their applications between 4 and 18 August 2025. 

    According to the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), this applies to learners currently enrolled in Grades 2 to 7 and Grades 9 to 12.

    “Transfer applications can also be submitted at the relevant school to which the parent or caregiver wishes to transfer, or at the relevant district office,“ the department explained. 

    Parents applying will need supporting documents, including the last school report card, identity document (ID), birth certificate, passport, study permit or proof of application or police affidavit, and proof of address or police affidavit. 

    “Parents who have not registered on the online system previously will first need to register on the online site. Once registration is completed, they can then proceed to the application,” the statement read. 

    According to the department, schools can only capture applications for their institution, but the online system allows for applications to multiple schools.

    Parents or caregivers will be required to fill out the WCED application form, which can also be downloaded from the WCED website. The form can only be submitted to schools or the district office from 4 August 2025 onwards.

    Parents can drop off the application form and supporting documents directly at the school or contact the school for details on electronic submissions using only the official WCED form.

    Regarding Grades R, 1, and 8 applications, the department announced that schools are currently finalising their admission lists and confirming placements for children on their waiting lists. This process is still ongoing.

    “We do, however, appeal to all parents and caregivers who have not yet applied for Grade 1 and Grade 8 for the 2026 school year to do so immediately. The online platform is closed for these late applications.” 

    Parents are advised to contact their district office or call 0861 819 919 for more information.

    Online video tutorials and step-by-step guidelines for school transfer applications are available on the website: https://wcedonline.westerncape.gov.za/admissions. 

    Visit the admissions site for the form and relevant details: https://wcedonline.westerncape.gov.za/admissions. 

    Applications can be done online at: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/education/service/learner-admissions. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Monetary Statistics for June 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

    According to statistics published today (July 31) by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, total deposits with authorized institutions increased by 0.9 per cent in June 2025. Among the total, Hong Kong dollar deposits decreased by 0.9 per cent while foreign currency deposits increased by 2.4 per cent in June, mainly reflecting fund flows of corporates. For the first half of 2025 as a whole, total deposits and Hong Kong dollar deposits increased by 7.6 per cent and 7.0 per cent respectively. Renminbi deposits in Hong Kong decreased by 9.6 per cent in June to RMB882.1 billion at the end of June, mainly reflecting fund flows of corporates. The total remittance of renminbi for cross-border trade settlement amounted to RMB1,223.5 billion in June, compared with RMB1,123.6 billion in May. It should be noted that changes in deposits are affected by a wide range of factors, such as interest rate movements and fund-raising activities. It is therefore more appropriate to observe the longer-term trends, and not to over-generalise fluctuations in a single month.
     
    Total loans and advances increased by 1.1 per cent in June, and increased by 2.5 per cent in the first half of 2025. Among the total, loans for use in Hong Kong (including trade finance) and loans for use outside Hong Kong increased by 0.9 per cent and 1.8 per cent respectively in June. The Hong Kong dollar loan-to-deposit ratio increased to 72.0 per cent at the end of June from 70.5 per cent at the end of May, as Hong Kong dollar deposits decreased while Hong Kong dollar loans increased.
     
    For the second quarter of 2025 as a whole, loans for use in Hong Kong (including trade finance) increased by 1.6 per cent after increasing by 0.5 per cent in the previous quarter. Analysed by economic use, the increase in loans during the second quarter was mainly led by loans to financial concerns and loans to electricity and gas.
     
    Hong Kong dollar M2 and M3 both decreased by 0.8 per cent in June, while both increased by 8.4 per cent when compared to a year ago. The seasonally-adjusted Hong Kong dollar M1 increased by 4.4 per cent in June and increased by 23.7 per cent compared to a year ago, reflecting in part investment-related activities. Total M2 and total M3 both increased by 0.8 per cent in June. Compared to a year earlier, total M2 and total M3 both increased by 11.5 per cent.  
     
    As monthly monetary statistics are subject to volatilities due to a wide range of transient factors, such as seasonal funding demand as well as business and investment-related activities, caution is required when interpreting the statistics.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs detects case involving precious metals and stones dealer carrying out specified cash transaction without Category B registration

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Hong Kong Customs yesterday (July 30) detected a case involving a local watch company that conducted a cash transaction valued at over HK$120,000, while not being a Category B registrant under the Dealers in Precious Metals and Stones Regulatory Regime. A director of the company was arrested.
     
    The investigation is ongoing. The arrested person has been released on bail.
     
    According to the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance (Cap. 615), the Regime came into effect on April 1, 2023. Any person who is seeking to carry on a business of dealing in precious metals and stones in Hong Kong and engage in any transaction(s) (whether making or receiving a payment) with a total value at or above HK$120,000 in Hong Kong is required to register with the Commissioner of Customs and Excise.
     
    In particular, no person other than a Category B registrant may carry out a cash transaction with a total value at or above HK$120,000 in the course of business of dealing in precious metals and stones. Any dealer who is not a Category B registrant, who claims to be a Category B registrant, claims to be authorised to carry out, or carries out any cash transaction(s) with a total value at or above HK$120,000, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a maximum fine of HK$100,000 and imprisonment for six months.
     
    Customs reminds dealers in precious metals and stones that they must obtain the relevant registration before they can carry out any cash or non-cash transaction(s) with a total value at or above HK$120,000.
     
    For the forms, procedures and guidelines to submit applications for registration, please visit the website for the Dealers in Precious Metals and Stones Registration System (www.drs.customs.gov.hk) or Customs’ webpage (www.customs.gov.hk/en/service-enforcement-information/anti-money-laundering/supervision-of-dealers-in-precious-metals-and-ston/index.html).
     
    Members of the public may report any suspected transactions involving precious metals and stones with a total value at or above HK$120,000 conducted without the required registration to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Residential mortgage loans in negative equity: End of June 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

    The Hong Kong Monetary Authority announced today (July 31) the results of its survey on residential mortgage loans (RMLs) in negative equity at end-June 2025.
      
    The estimated number of RMLs in negative equity was 37 806 cases at end-June 2025, as compared to 40 741 cases at end-March 2025. These cases were mainly related to bank staff housing loans or RMLs under mortgage insurance programme, which generally have a higher loan-to-value ratio.
     
    The aggregate value of RMLs in negative equity decreased to HK$190.2 billion at end-June 2025 compared with HK$205.9 billion at end-March 2025.
     
    The unsecured portion of these loans decreased to HK$14.3 billion at end-June 2025 from HK$16.4 billion at end-March 2025.
     
    The three-month delinquency ratio of RMLs in negative equity remained at a low level of 0.21 per cent at end-June 2025 as compared to 0.17 per cent at end-March 2025.
     
    It is important to note that the figures derived from this survey relate only to RMLs provided by authorized institutions on the basis of first mortgages and which the reporting institution knows to be in negative equity (i.e. the outstanding loan amount with the reporting institution exceeds the current market value of the mortgaged property). Not included in these figures are RMLs associated with co-financing schemes which would be in negative equity if the second mortgages were taken into account. The extent to which such RMLs are in negative equity is not known because authorized institutions do not maintain records on the outstanding balances of the second mortgages. 
     
    The mortgage portfolios of the surveyed authorized institutions represent about 99 per cent of the industry total. The survey results have been extrapolated to estimate the position of the banking sector as a whole. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Residential Mortgage Survey Results for June 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:
     
         The Hong Kong Monetary Authority announced the results of the residential mortgage survey for June 2025.
     
         The number of mortgage applications in June increased month-on-month by 4.8 per cent to 8 581.
     
         Mortgage loans approved in June increased by 3.3 per cent compared with May to HK$27.5 billion. Among these, mortgage loans financing primary market transactions increased by 4.2 per cent to HK$9.3 billion and those financing secondary market transactions increased by 2.4 per cent to HK$15 billion. Mortgage loans for refinancing increased by 5.2 per cent to HK$3.2 billion. 
     
         Mortgage loans drawn down during June increased by 8.9 per cent compared with May to HK$17.7 billion. 
     
         The ratio of new mortgage loans priced with reference to HIBOR increased from 93.4 per cent in May to 94.7 per cent in June. The ratio of new mortgage loans priced with reference to best lending rates decreased from 1.9 per cent in May to 1.7 per cent in June.
     
         The outstanding value of mortgage loans increased month-on-month by 0.1 per cent to HK$1,885.6 billion at end-June. 
     
         The mortgage delinquency ratio stood at a low level of 0.13 per cent and the rescheduled loan ratio was unchanged at nearly 0 per cent.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hospital Authority streamlines clinical research approval to promote medical research development (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

         The Hospital Authority (HA) held a sharing session today (July 31) with representatives from the Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute (GBAICTI) and Hong Kong’s pharmaceutical industry to outline a series of enhancement measures implemented by the HA for promoting clinical research development, including the recently implemented streamlined approval procedures aiming at attracting more clinical research projects from the industry.
     
         Last year, the HA established a Central Clinical Research and Innovation Office and Cluster Clinical Research Support Offices in each cluster to provide support for frontline healthcare professionals and proactively encourage participation in clinical research. In April this year, the HA further enhanced the application and approval procedures for commercially sponsored clinical research, including revising the long-standing standard clinical research agreement template to provide more up-to-date content and balance the interests of all parties. The HA has also engaged a professional organisation to assist in the review and approval of commercially sponsored clinical research applications, expediting the approval process and timeframe through the incorporation of industry expertise.
     
         The Director (Quality and Safety) of the HA, Dr Michael Wong, expressed confidence that the new measures will promote the clinical research development. “As a key player in local clinical research with professional medical teams and extensive healthcare data, the HA has been aligning with government policies and engaging in communication and exchange with various healthcare institutions and industry stakeholders. Through optimising processes and streamlining approval procedures, the HA aims to facilitate efficient implementation and execution of clinical research, fostering a more conducive environment for medical innovation and enhancing Hong Kong’s competitiveness in international clinical research.”
     
         About 100 participants in the sharing session included members and representatives from the GBAICTI and the Hong Kong Association of the Pharmaceutical Industry, who had in-depth exchanges on the development of clinical research in Hong Kong.
     
         The HA Central Institutional Review Board (Central IRB) completed the integration of all cluster Research Ethics Committees in March 2024 and has processed over 1 000 clinical research applications. The Central IRB serves as a co-ordinator and has been further streamlining the research ethics application and approval process and facilitating cross-cluster clinical research applications. Following process optimisation, simple clinical research applications can now be processed through an expedited review procedure, with approval times significantly reduced to within 30 days, while the ethics review for complex research applications can be completed within 60 days.
     
         The HA will continue to dovetail with government policy directions and the needs of the pharmaceutical industry, deepen collaboration with the GBAICTI, and fully support various clinical research applications, thereby promoting Hong Kong’s medical and scientific research, enhancing healthcare standards, and benefitting patients.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government revises eligibility criteria for government-subsidised post-secondary student places and subsidies

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Government today (July 31) announced the revision of the eligibility criteria for government-subsidised post-secondary student places and subsidies: introducing two categories of tuition fees and revising the eligibility criteria. The revision will apply to the 2027/28 academic year and thereafter (the application cycle for the 2027/28 academic year commencing in October 2026). This will allow the affected persons reasonable time to make their own plans and the Joint University Programmes Admissions System (JUPAS) Office and the admissions offices of various institutions (including the University Grants Committee (UGC)-funded universities, the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, and the Vocational Training Council) sufficient time to make corresponding administrative arrangements.
     
    A Government spokesperson said, “Under the current admissions arrangements, dependant visa/entry permit holders who were below 18 years old when first issued with such visa/entry permit by the Immigration Department (ImmD) are considered local students. There has been recent concern that some of these students did not come to reside in Hong Kong but applied for government-subsidised student places at UGC-funded universities as local students, which affected opportunities for university admission and the targeted use of public funds.
     
         “To clarify the eligibility criteria for government-subsidised post-secondary student places and subsidies, and to ensure the proper use of public funds, the Education Bureau, having regard to overseas practices and the practical situation in Hong Kong, considers it necessary for dependant children to reside in Hong Kong for two years before becoming eligible for government-subsidised post-secondary student places. Holders of a full-time employment visa/work permit or a visa/entry permit for various admission schemes will no longer be eligible for government-subsidised post-secondary student places.”
     
         Two categories of tuition fees are introduced under the revision. Category I refers to subsidised fees. Persons holding the following documents are eligible for government-subsidised student places in relation to sub-degree, undergraduate and taught postgraduate programmes:
     

    • A Hong Kong permanent identity card, other documents issued by the ImmD showing the right to land/right of abode in Hong Kong, and a visa label for unconditional stay;
    • A One-way Permit for entry to Hong Kong; and
    • A dependant visa/entry permit: holders who were below 18 years old when first issued with such visa/entry permit by the ImmD, provided that they have resided in Hong Kong for two years immediately preceding the first day of their respective programmes. Regarding first-year student places, to facilitate institutions’ admissions procedures, the two-year period will be specified appropriately by the JUPAS office or the institutions concerned having regard to the first day of the respective programmes. Whether the residency requirement is met is determined at or before the start of each academic year and shall remain the same for the remainder of that academic year. The first day of the academic year of a programme is determined by the programme’s start day. 

     
         Category II refers to non-subsidised fees and applies to persons not meeting the eligibility criteria in the above-mentioned Category I. These persons include:
     

    • Dependant visa/entry permit holders who were below 18 years old when first issued with such visa/entry permit by the ImmD, and they do not meet the two-year residency requirement;
    • Holders of a full-time employment visa/work permit;
    • Holders of a visa/entry permit for various admission schemes (including the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme, the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme or the Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Residents); and
    • Non-local students (such as holders of a student visa/entry permit; holders of a visa/entry permit under the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates; dependant visa/entry permit holders who were 18 years old or above when first issued with such visa/entry permit by the ImmD).

     
         Category II persons may still apply for government-subsidised sub-degree, undergraduate and taught postgraduate programmes but have to pay non-subsidised fees. The institutions may determine appropriate non-subsidised fee levels, following the established principles, having regard to their own circumstances and programme costs, and taking a holistic view of various factors. The levels have to be at least sufficient to recover all additional direct costs, and to be on par with those applicable to non-local students.
     
         The Government will put in place a transitional arrangement for the above-mentioned revision, whereby the residency requirement for the 2027/28 academic year (its application cycle commencing in October 2026) will be set at one year. The two-year residency requirement will be implemented starting from the 2028/29 academic year.
     
    The spokesperson said, “When formulating the revision, the Government fully listened to various views in society and struck the right balance. The revision is not expected to have a significant impact on families with genuine intentions to come to Hong Kong for development.”
     
    Regarding the residency requirement for JUPAS applications for government-subsidised first-year-first-degree student places, applicants are required to provide the following proof:

    (a) proof from the applicant that he or she is enrolled as a full-time student in a school offering a formal curriculum in Hong Kong for the two-year period ending on May 31 in the year in which his or her respective programme begins; or
     
    (b) for those who cannot provide the proof in (a) above, a statement of travel records of the applicant which can be obtained at a fee from the ImmD covering the two-year period to demonstrate that the applicant is not absent from Hong Kong for a maximum of 90 days in each year of the two-year period.
       
         Regarding other government-subsidised post-secondary student places, including those in relation to sub-degree, senior year undergraduate and taught postgraduate programmes of UGC-funded universities, the relevant institutions are required to process the applications in an approach similar to the above-mentioned one.
     
         The eligibility criteria and related arrangements for government scholarship, fellowship or subsidy schemes which are currently premised on the definitions of “local students” and “non-local students” (such as the Hong Kong Future Talents Scholarship Scheme for Advanced Studies, the Tuition Waiver for Local Research Postgraduate Students, the Study Subsidy Scheme for Designated Professions/Sectors, and the Non-means-tested Subsidy Scheme for Self-financing Undergraduate Studies in Hong Kong) will also be correspondingly revised to ensure consistency. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HD implements multipronged mosquito control measures against chikungunya fever (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         In response to the recent surge in chikungunya fever cases reported in neighbouring regions, the Housing Department (HD) announced today (July 31) that the HD has stepped up mosquito prevention and control efforts through a multipronged approach in all public rental housing estates under the HD’s management, and appeals to residents to strengthen mosquito prevention and control measures.

         “To prevent mosquito-borne diseases effectively, all estate offices under the HD have strengthened anti-mosquito measures and prevention work jointly with different stakeholders and other government departments. They are strengthening inspections in public areas and flower beds; upon detection of mosquito breeding grounds, immediate actions will be taken, including conducting fogging operations to eliminate adult mosquitoes, removal of stagnant water and water-holding containers, application of larvicides (e.g. temephos sand granules), and installation of mosquito traps,” said an HD spokesman.

         “We have taken measures to keep drains free of blockage and level all defective ground surfaces to prevent water accumulation. We have also continuously enhanced public education and publicity through posters and leaflets to remind the public to adopt mosquito control measures. We also invited the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department to conduct educational talks to disseminate the latest information on chikungunya fever and mosquito prevention to the residents,” the spokesman added.

         Public participation is crucial in addition to the efforts of government departments. The HD urged residents to join hands to implement mosquito prevention and control measures at home and other places promptly. The measures include:
     

    • Keep the environment clean by disposing of rubbish properly. Refuse like empty cans and food containers where water can accumulate easily should be disposed of in covered litter containers;
    • Clean the saucers under potted plants weekly to prevent water accumulation;
    • Change the water in vases and scrub their internal surfaces every week;
    • Keep water storage containers, such as buckets and basins, tightly covered; and
    • Check air-conditioner drip trays to prevent any water accumulation.

         Please visit the Centre for Health Protection’s thematic webpage for more information on chikungunya fever: www.chp.gov.hk/en/features/109029.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: More online travel agencies commit to refund within 14 days for cancelled flights, following a dialogue with the Commission and consumer authorities

    Source: EuroStat – European Statistics

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 31 Jul 2025
    Following a dialogue with the European Commission and the Consumer Protection Cooperation (CPC) Network of national consumer authorities, Expedia and Lastminute.com have committed to better inform consumers of their rights and ensure they receive ticket refunds within 14 days in case of a flight cancellation by the airline.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Study on the potential costs and impact of the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive (UWWTD) on the pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors. – E-002988/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002988/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Elżbieta Katarzyna Łukacijewska (PPE), Ewa Kopacz (PPE), Danuše Nerudová (PPE), Marta Wcisło (PPE), Magdalena Adamowicz (PPE), Dolors Montserrat (PPE), Dariusz Joński (PPE), Elena Nevado del Campo (PPE), Susana Solís Pérez (PPE), Bartłomiej Sienkiewicz (PPE), Michał Wawrykiewicz (PPE), Dimitris Tsiodras (PPE), Michalis Hadjipantela (PPE), Massimiliano Salini (PPE), Flavio Tosi (PPE), Borys Budka (PPE), Oliver Schenk (PPE), Jan Farský (PPE), Tomáš Zdechovský (PPE), Laurent Castillo (PPE), Adam Jarubas (PPE), Dan-Ştefan Motreanu (PPE), Christophe Grudler (Renew), Peter Liese (PPE), Marie-Pierre Vedrenne (Renew)

    The UWWTD[1] raises concerns, as its EPR scheme assigns 80 % of quaternary treatment costs to cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

    The scheme appears scientifically unfounded and contrary to the ‘polluter pays’ principle (PPP). New Commission data shows that cosmetics contribute only around 1.5 % of toxic load, far below the 26 % cited in the impact assessment, an overestimation by at least 15 times.

    This discrepancy calls the fairness and effectiveness of the UWWTD into question and places a disproportionate administrative burden on the cosmetics sector, especially SMEs.

    The water resilience strategy states the Commission will update its cost and impact analysis under Article 9 UWWTD before implementing EPR.

    • 1.When does the Commission plan to conduct an updated study on EPR costs and the potential impact on the sectors concerned, as envisaged in the water resilience strategy?
    • 2.Will the Commission propose pausing implementation work until the above study is conducted to ensure that national-level discussions are based on both robust data and contributions from sectors concerned by the toxic load in urban wastewater?
    • 3.What regulatory measures does the Commission envisage to help adjust and improve the efficacy of the EPR scheme and ensure a fair application of the PPP, and can it introduce a switch from a sector-based approach to a substance-based approach to reflect the complexity of water pollution EPR?

    Submitted: 17.7.2025

    • [1] Directive (EU) 2024/3019 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 November 2024 concerning urban wastewater treatment, (OJ L, 2024/3019, 12.12.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/3019/oj).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – How many degrees Celsius of global warming will actually be prevented by the EU’s intermediate target to decrease emissions by 90 % by 2040? – P-003042/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-003042/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Sander Smit (PPE)

    On 14 July 2025, Parliament’s Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety held an exchange of views with the Commission, during which MEP Sander Smit raised questions regarding the proposed target to reduce emissions by 90 % by 2040 and the broader implications of this. Specifically, he inquired to what extent the 90 % intermediate reduction target would contribute to limiting the rise in global temperatures. He also asked how the proposed target aligns with Article 2(1)(b) of the Paris Agreement, which requires that climate action be pursued in a manner that does not threaten food production. These oral questions remained unanswered by the Commission.

    • 1.According to the Commission, exactly how many degrees Celsius of global warming will be prevented by the EU’s intermediate target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 90 % by 2040?
    • 2.How will the Commission ensure that relevant implementing and emission reduction measures comply with Article 2 (1)(b) of the Paris Agreement, i.e. that these measures are pursued ‘in a manner that does not threaten food production’?

    Submitted: 23.7.2025

    Last updated: 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Exemption for temporary construction emissions and depositions for sustainable projects – P-003051/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-003051/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Tom Berendsen (PPE)

    In its resolution on the Clean Industrial Deal (2025/2656 (RSP)), Parliament expressly called on the Commission to introduce a temporary exemption for construction emissions and depositions for clean and net-zero projects and storage and grid infrastructure. The Draghi report also makes reference to the need for this.[1]

    In several Member States, including the Netherlands, sustainable projects for CCS infrastructure, green hydrogen production or grid reinforcement, for instance, are being delayed or blocked because of permit requirements in connection with construction emissions or deposition (nitrogen-related for the most part).[2] This stems from European legislation and needs to be resolved urgently.[3]

    Emissions and deposition during construction are temporary and, in most instances, are no more than ‘negligible’[4] while, over time, the sustainable projects themselves actually lead to substantial reductions in CO₂ and nitrogen emissions. Current European legislation in this area is therefore hampering the necessary speeding up of the energy transition for industry and of the process of making industry sustainable.

    • 1.Does the Commission agree that there should be exemptions for temporary construction emissions and depositions for sustainable projects?
    • 2.Is the Commission considering making specific proposals along those lines, for example in the prospective European Grids Package and/or the Industrial Decarbonisation Accelerator Act?
    • 3.If so, on what timescale is a proposal to be expected?

    Submitted: 23.7.2025

    • [1] The Draghi report (Part A), p. 50; the Draghi report (Part B), p. 33.
    • [2] See inter alia ‘Volkskrant’, ‘Groen licht voor CO2-opslag onder Noordzee, milieuactivisten verliezen strijd tegen Porthos-project’ (16.8.2023); ‘L1 Nieuws’, ‘Provincie zet vergunning waterstoffabriek door, ondanks negatief advies’ (7.5.2025); De Telegraaf, ‘Netbeheerder: zeker 317 uitbreidingsprojecten in gevaar door stikstofregels, tekort stroom dreigt’ (21.4.2025).
    • [3] Such as the Habitats Directive, the Birds Directive and the Environmental Impact Assessment Directive.
    • [4] See, for example, Council of State, Ruling 202107079/2/R4, para. 15-15.11.
    Last updated: 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU’s inaction in the face of Türkiye’s political hegemony over Libya – P-003025/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-003025/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR)

    Launched in 2020, Operation IRINI (Greek for ‘peace’) is supposed to be the EU’s core tool for implementing the UN arms embargo on Libya. Despite a number of extensions, prolonging the mission to 2027, and a ‘broadening of its remit’ to include monitoring of critical infrastructure and illegal activities, its effectiveness remains disputed. Türkiye, a major disruptor of the legal order in the region, is openly violating the arms embargo on Libya, without consequences. The mission has resulted in just three seizures of cargo in five years, with tens of thousands of vessels contacted by radio and few ships actually inspected. The lack of binding enforcement measures weakens any deterrent effect. It seems, therefore, that Operation IRINI is more of a symbolic gesture than an effective mechanism for enforcing international law in the Mediterranean.

    The recent ‘Goodwill Agreement’ between Türkiye and Libya increases bilateral trade and strengthens cooperation in the fields of energy, mining and infrastructure. What is more, the ‘controlled’ illegal migration flows to Greece and Italy demonstrate that Libya has been implementing ‘Turkish know-how’ in hope of securing an economic package equivalent to the 2016 agreement between the EU and Türkiye.

    Given that Greece is receiving irregular immigrants from Libya and that both Western and Eastern Libyan administrations are cooperating closely with Türkiye in the face of international law and Greek sovereign rights and sovereignty, what action does the Commission intend to take in order to address Türkiye’s anti-Greek ‘campaign’ in Libya?

    Submitted: 21.7.2025

    Last updated: 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Research for REGI, CONT and BUDG Committees – Cohesion Policy Calendar (2021-2027 and 2014-2020 Programming Periods) July 2025 update – 16-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The implementation timetable for cohesion policy is defined largely by its legislative framework. In order to be able to plan parliamentary work and exercise systematic scrutiny of policy implementation and of the Commission’s work, it is essential to have an overview of the timing of different steps in policy implementation in the coming years. This type of briefing was first published (and subsequently updated) in 2014 covering the 2014-2020 programming period. This version includes the policy actions of the 2021-27 period, while still indicating the last steps of the 2014-20 period. It includes a detailed (but non-exhaustive) timetable of policy actions in 2025, together with an overview of major actions for the remainder of the programming period, from 2026. Given its contribution to cohesion in the European Union, policy actions under the Recovery and Resilience Facility are now included in the calendar. Policy actions related to budgetary and budgetary control aspects are coloured green (for the year 2025).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Evidence of poor implementation of the Digital Services Act (DSA) by X and the Republic of Ireland – P-003074/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-003074/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Günther Sidl (S&D)

    The DSA came into force in February 2024; it lays down specific obligations for large online platforms to tackle illegal hate speech on the internet.

    However, as explained in the blog post ‘X ist ein rechtsfreier Raum’ (‘X is a legal vacuum’) by an Austrian journalist and television presenter, there are considerable doubts as to whether, in practice, the DSA is being implemented in accordance with the law[1]. For example, following a criminal complaint made in order to have a perpetrator of hate speech on X investigated, both Twitter International Unlimited Company in Dublin, which is responsible for processing data for X in the EU, and the Irish Department of Justice refused to comply with a Vienna Regional Criminal Court order to provide information. The Austrian courts have therefore been unable to investigate the perpetrator.

    • 1.Does the Commission regard it as permissible for an online platform to refuse to provide information to a Member State’s judicial authority on the ground that only requests under a bilateral mutual legal assistance agreement will be responded to?
    • 2.Does the Commission regard it as permissible for a Member State to refuse to provide assistance on the ground that it is competent only if the requested data are physically stored on its territory?
    • 3.Will the Commission take this case as an opportunity to look into whether X and the Republic of Ireland have breached their obligations under the DSA?

    Submitted: 24.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.arminwolf.at/2025/06/28/x-ist-ein-rechtsfreier-raum/
    Last updated: 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Nomination for a Member of the European Court of Auditors: The Netherlands – 31-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    This note describes the treaty provisions and appointment procedure for ECA members at EU level. In addition, it provides information on the national nomination procedure for the ECA member in The Netherlands and the country’s candidate.

    Source : © European Union, 2025 – EP

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Legal risks of EU proposal to ban Russian natural gas imports – E-003014/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-003014/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Fabio De Masi (NI)

    According to the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies, the proposal for a regulation on phasing out Russian natural gas imports, improving the monitoring of potential energy dependencies and amending Regulation (EU) 2017/1938 raises unresolved legal issues that ‘place a significant burden on importers and other stakeholders, while risking regulatory overreach […] thus potentially increasing costs and preventing legitimate gas imports’. The analysts also argue that the amendment of the rules creates legal uncertainty, in particular as regards the application of force majeure clauses and contract termination. The proposal does not guarantee that an import ban will be recognised as a case of force majeure under the relevant contract, leaving buyers exposed to potential claims for compensation or ongoing obligations under long-term Russian gas and LNG contracts, even if the EU ban is in place.

    How will the European Commission take account of the criticism of the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies[1] that the proposal to phase out Russian gas imports creates legal uncertainties and exposes importers to possible claims for compensation?

    Submitted: 19.7.2025

    • [1] https://www.oxfordenergy.org/wpcms/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/The-EU-Proposal-To-Ban-Russian-Gas-Imports-roadblock-more-than-roadmap-NG-199.pdf
    Last updated: 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Nomination for a Member of the European Court of Auditors: Luxembourg – 31-07-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    This note describes the treaty provisions and appointment procedure for ECA members at EU level. In addition, it provides information on the national nomination procedure for the ECA member in Luxembourg and the country’s candidate.

    Source : © European Union, 2025 – EP

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU support for the Islamist regime in Syria – E-002994/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002994/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Barbara Bonte (PfE)

    Since the start of the crisis in Syria in 2011, the EU and its Member States have pledged upwards of EUR 37 billion in support for Syria and the region. That makes the EU and its Member States the largest donors of international aid to address the situation in Syria. At the recent donors’ conference in March 2025, the Commission pledged EUR 2.5 billion in support for the transition in Syria. In response to the conference, the Commission stated: ‘The European Union will continue to stand by the Syrian people, not only in responding to urgent humanitarian needs but in helping to build a just, inclusive, and stable future. Together, we are not just offering aid – we are investing in hope, resilience, and a path toward lasting peace.’ That the Commission is naive is borne out by the regime’s violent assaults on Alawites and, recently, on Druze, but also by the abolition of women’s rights.

    • 1.What conditions has the Commission attached to the allocation of funds?
    • 2.Why has the Commission not yet suspended the allocation of grants?
    • 3.How many Syrian refugees have returned to their homeland from the EU since the takeover in Syria?

    Submitted: 18.7.2025

    Last updated: 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – EU financing for the fact-checking company Check First – P-003079/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-003079/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Isabella Tovaglieri (PfE)

    The Commission said that Putin’s Russia may have been behind the motion of censure against President von der Leyen. According to Commission spokesperson Thomas Reigner, the motion was part of Moscow’s plans, and independent fact-checkers have confirmed that fact[1].

    One of the fact-checkers that the Commission explicitly refers to is Check First. However, that company appears to receive direct funding from the European Union, which is also visible on their page[2].

    Specifically, it is receiving EU funds for the Crossover and OKSA projects[3], financed by means of EU funds, and is part of the European Fact-Checking Standards Network, which is also co-financed through EU programmes to fight disinformation[4].

    In the light of the above:

    • 1.What is the exact amount of EU funds received by Check First through calls or financing?
    • 2.Give its participation in the aforementioned EU programmes, can this company be regarded as an ‘independent’ fact-checker when it comes to judging a political entity (including the EU)?

    Submitted: 24.7.2025

    • [1] https://europa.today.it/unione-europea/mosca-dietro-mozione-sfiducia-von-der-leyen.html.
    • [2] https://checkfirst.network/about-us/?utm_source=chatgpt.com.
    • [3] https://checkfirst.network/2-years-of-checkfirst/?utm_source=chatgpt.com.
    • [4] https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/news/commission-launches-eu5-million-call-strengthen-european-fact-checking-network-2025-05-27_en?utm_source=chatgpt.com.
    Last updated: 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Tobias Billström signs High Seas Treaty

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Following more than 15 years of negotiations, in March 2023 the UN successfully adopted a new global treaty to protect marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. Sweden has now signed the treaty, which establishes rules to limit environmental impacts and create marine protected areas in the high seas, which make up approximately 95 per cent of the volume of the world’s oceans.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister Burke publishes report identifying a €1 billion gap in financing for Irish enterprises looking to scale up and go international

    Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

    31st July 2025

    Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke, today published a Report entitled “Market Demand for and Supply of Scaling Finance in Ireland”.

    The Report concludes that there is a gap in equity financing for Irish enterprises at the point where they are looking to scale up their businesses and realise their potential. It estimates that gap at about €1.1 billion over the next 2 to 5 years. It finds that demand for equity finance amongst scaling firms has increased in Ireland over the last decade and expects that trend will continue.

    The Report, which was prepared by SQW Economic Research Consultants for the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, also finds that the gap is particularly acute for –

    • Deals in the €5m – €10 m range;
    • Capital and research and development intensive sectors, where typically the most innovative start-ups are;
    • Firms requiring patient, long term, capital investment, such as those in sectors where product development can be lengthy.

    The Report goes on to describe other features of the gap and identify several factors that contribute to firms failing to secure adequate finance.

    Commenting on the Report, Minister Burke said:

    “One of the key commitments in the Programme for Government is to help Irish businesses scale up and grow internationally, retaining a substantial workforce here as well as building abroad. Ireland ranks highly in Europe for the number of start-ups, many of them truly pioneering. So, we have an excellent starting point to delivering on that commitment.

    I know from my engagement with enterprises across the country, that one of the key challenges they face is a gap in accessing capital. It can be the reason preventing them from realising their potential and growing into large, even multinational, businesses.

    The Report published today confirms and quantifies the gap in available finance for firms looking to scale up. The Report also provides us with insights on the nature, as well as the size, of that gap.

    These findings will inform the development of appropriate and targeted policy measures, which I intend to bring to Government later this year.”

    The Report can be found at: Market Demand for and Supply of Scaling Finance in Ireland

    NOTES FOR EDITORS:

    The Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment commissioned SQW Economic Research Consultants to conduct a market analysis to quantify the scaling finance gap. 

    SQW, supported by Middlesex University in London and the Oxford Innovation WorkIQ in Dublin, conducted research to define and quantify the market gap for Irish firms seeking equity capital to scale up their enterprises. The focus was on equity finance – venture capital (VC) and private equity (PE) – covering deal sizes from €2m to €50m for innovative firms in their late-stage growth phase. 

    The study gathered evidence through an e-survey of ‘potential scale-up firms’ in Ireland (166 responses); and interviews with fund managers, stakeholders and Irish firms. Across these interviews, feedback was obtained from nearly 60 individuals. The fieldwork was supported by analysis of private market data from PitchBook relating to potential scale-up firms in Ireland, investment funds, and fund managers (these data are not comprehensive). 

    The market gap (defined as the sum of ‘unmet’ and ‘discouraged’ demand) for scaling firms in Ireland was modelled using ‘Monte Carlo’ simulations: a statistical technique that helps to address the uncertainty associated with firm e-survey responses and the modest sample size. Monte Carlo simulated the likely equity needs and outcomes of fundraising at the firm level for an assumed population of potential scale-ups in Ireland (1,000 companies). 

    The report concludes that the equity market gap, for scaling firms in Ireland, is estimated to be approximately €1.1bn over the next 3 to 5 years.

    They also identified the gap is:

    • particularly acute for deals in the €5m-€10m range; 
    • from Series A and especially Series B+;
    • for capital and R&D intensive sectors;
    • for firms requiring patient capital investment. 

    The report found that the demand for equity finance amongst scaling firms has increased in Ireland over the last decade, including for larger deal sizes, and is expected to continue. The pace of funding delivery can be challenging, whether through slow release of finance or the peak and trough nature of its release however, transaction costs were generally not perceived to be a barrier on the demand or supply side.

    Additional contributing factors resulting in the lack of securing funding include:

    • undercapitalisation at earlier stages; 
    • firms not hitting their scaling metrics to secure funding; 
    • firms not able to recruit the personnel who have the capabilities to secure later stage financing and scale-up;
    • Irish firms tend to ask for less than they need to scale;
    • risk aversion. 

    On the supply side, the report found that most Irish funds are too small to execute scaling strategies or lead larger deals at later stage, especially in the range before international capital comes in. These Irish funds are smaller in size compared to their European counterparts. The average fund size in Ireland is just under €70m and Irish VC funds are even smaller at €60m on average. According to stakeholder consultees, an optimal fund size to execute a scaling strategy is in the region of €200m-€300. The lack of institutional capital is another barrier to increasing fund sizes. 

    There are only a limited number of funds actively investing in later stages with average deal sizes in Ireland at €6.5m compared to the European average of €8.9m. For many VCs, the focus was on earlier stage investment with only some follow-on at later stage. 

    Next Steps

    The Department is developing proposals for actions to address the gap. The Minister intends to bring those proposals to Government later this year.

    ENDS

    Back to Department News

    Back to Top

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Sidetrade charts its course in responsible AI with the publication of its 2024 CSR report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    In a digital world where algorithms grow more powerful by the day, Sidetrade, a pioneer in AI-powered cash flow management, reaffirms its role as a responsible leader. Today, the company releases its 2024 CSR Report, marking a new milestone in its commitment to sustainable technology, ethical governance, and inclusive growth.

    Structured in accordance with the voluntary CSRD VSME framework, Sidetrade’s 2024 report tells a standout story in the tech industry: a company that, in 2024, achieved remarkable revenue growth (+26%) while reducing its carbon footprint by 3.3%. This contrast reflects Sidetrade’s core ambition: to decouple business growth from environmental impact.

    “Cash is still the oxygen that fuels business growth. But that growth must no longer come at any cost. We have set a new standard, one that aligns performance with purpose,” said Olivier Novasque, CEO and founder at Sidetrade. “Our agentic AI, Aimie, must be useful, efficient, and capable of delivering business value, operational excellence, and positive societal impact.”

    In 2024, Sidetrade launched an ambitious digital sobriety program. With a virtualization rate of 95.6%, data centers powered by renewable energy (both in Europe and North America), and a Power Usage Effectiveness of 1.39 (well below the EU average*), Sidetrade is redefining SaaS industry benchmarks.

    Sidetrade also made a notable impact in non-financial ratings, earning a Platinum Medal from EthiFinance and a Silver Medal from EcoVadis, placing it among the top 15% of rated companies in Europe. This recognition highlights both its tangible carbon reductions and the strength of its CSR governance, led by a dedicated committee reporting to executive leadership.

    “Excellence and ambition are the dual engines of our CSR journey,” said Philippe Gangneux, CFO and CSR Ambassador at Sidetrade. “Excellence ensures discipline in our commitments; ambition pushes us to aim higher, to reach further, and to generate lasting impact.”

    As an active member of the United Nations Global Compact, Sidetrade has aligned its roadmap with 10 of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, including climate action, workplace equity, ethical governance, and digital resilience.

    The 2024 Sidetrade CSR report, with detailed performance indicators, is available here.

    *source: ADEME, 2024

    Investor & Media relations @Sidetrade
    Christelle Dhrif                +33 6 10 46 72 00          cdhrif@sidetrade.com

    About Sidetrade (www.sidetrade.com)
    Sidetrade (Euronext Growth: ALBFR.PA) provides a SaaS platform designed to revolutionize how cash flow is secured and accelerated. Leveraging its new-generation agentic AI, nicknamed Aimie, Sidetrade analyzes $7.2 trillion worth of B2B payment transactions daily in its Cloud, thereby anticipating customer payment behavior and the attrition risk of 40 million buyers worldwide. Sidetrade has a global reach, with 400+ talented employees based in Europe, the United States, and Canada, serving global businesses in more than 85 countries. Among them: AGFA, BMW Financial Services, Bunzl, DXC, Engie, Inmarsat, KPMG, Lafarge, Manpower, Morningstar, Page, Randstad, Safran, Saint-Gobain, Securitas, Siemens, UGI, Veolia.
    For further information, visit us at www.sidetrade.com and follow @Sidetrade on LinkedIn.
    In the event of any discrepancy between the French and English versions of this press release, only the French version is to be taken into account.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. : Form 8.3 – INTERNATIONAL PERSONAL FINAN – Ordinary Shares

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1. KEY INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Full name of discloser: Dimensional Fund Advisors Ltd. in its capacity as investment advisor and on behalf its affiliates who are also investment advisors (”Dimensional”). Dimensional expressly disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares described in this form 8.3.  
    (b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
    The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		    
    (c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
    Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 International Personal Finance PLC  
    (d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:    
    (e) Date position held/dealing undertaken:
    For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 30 July 2025  
    (f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
    If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 N/A  
       
    2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.  
    (a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)  
       
    Class of relevant security: 10p ordinary (GB00B1YKG049)  
      Interests Short Positions  
      Number % Number %  
    (1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 6,560,666 2.99 %      
    (2) Cash-settled derivatives:          
    (3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:          
      Total 6,560,666 * 2.99 %      
    * Dimensional Fund Advisors LP and/or its affiliates do not have discretion regarding voting decisions in respect of 18,517 shares that are included in the total above.  
       
    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    		  
       
       
    (b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)  
       
    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:    
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:    
       
    3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE  
       
    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    		  
    (a) Purchases and sales  
       
    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit  
             
       
    (b) Cash-settled derivative transactions  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. CFD Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position Number of reference securities Price per unit  
               
       
    (c) Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)
     
    (i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying
     
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type e.g. American, European etc. Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   
       
    (ii) Exercise  
       
    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit  
               
       
    (d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)  
                 
    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing e.g. subscription, conversion Details Price per unit (if applicable)  
             
       
    4. OTHER INFORMATION  
       
    (a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements  
       
    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (b) Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives  
       
    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”    		  
    None  
       
    (c) Attachments  
       
    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO  
       
    Date of disclosure 13 August 2025  
    Contact name Thomas Hone  
    Telephone number +44 20 3033 3419  
       

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Prospera Energy Inc. Provides Operations Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Prospera Energy Inc. (TSX.V: PEI, OTC: GXRFF) (“Prospera”, “PEI” or the “Corporation”)

    Operations Update
    Prospera continues to demonstrate strong operational performance, averaging gross production of 859 boe/d (97% oil) from July 1st to July 23rd. This sustained growth follows the successful completion of numerous projects across the company’s properties including well reactivations, rod repairs, sand control upgrades, engine maintenance and tune-ups, lease upgrades, mineral rights acquisitions, coil-tubing cleanouts, and waterflood optimizations. Nine additional wells have come online in the last 10 days and are currently in stages of load fluid recovery or initial optimization.

    Notably, these figures exclude production from the recently acquired White Tundra Petroleum assets, which remains subject to TSXV acceptance. Comprehensive well-by-well analysis is now being conducted weekly, with production enhancement changes implemented on a daily basis through communication with field operations personnel. Concurrently, Prospera’s service rig continues to systematically work through a robust inventory of over 150 remaining workover and reactivation candidates across its heavy oil properties, further enhancing operational efficiency.

    Prospera’s predominantly heavy oil production base continues to operate in favorable pricing conditions with WCS (Western Canadian Select) differentials in an optimal range, contributing to enhanced revenue and cash flow. The Corporation’s high netbacks support our strategy to reallocate capital efficiently into high-impact and reliable projects, with 50+ projects now completed and plans finalized for its Q3 and Q4 service rig programs including nine Luseland reactivations that have completed engineering and planning stages.

    Cuthbert
    Production at the Cuthbert pool has been rising steadily, averaging 356 boe/d (100% oil) from July 1st to July 23rd. This sustained growth is supported by ongoing waterflood optimization, increased pump speeds, and the completion of critical maintenance across wellsite and battery infrastructure.

    A high-impact remediation project on the 16-28 HZ well has been successfully completed, involving the installation of a downhole bridge plug to isolate a section of the well previously drilled into coal and water-bearing part of the formation. Additionally, a high-impact remediation project on the 08-02 HZ well has been fully funded and is awaiting mobilization after lease conditions dry up. This project includes a casing cut and cementing to block water production from the heel of the well.

    Hearts Hill
    Production at the Hearts Hill pool remains stable, averaging 230 boe/d (91% oil) from July 1st to 23rd. The Corporation is actively advancing waterflood pattern optimization and fluid level drawdown initiatives to enhance reservoir performance. A comprehensive line-by-line review of all pipelines in the area has been completed to confirm injection volumes, validate pipeline integrity, and support the development of a final field reactivation and workover plan. Earlier Sparky zone recompletions continue to deliver consistent oil production, with future Sparky waterflood development held in inventory. Prospera is also actively evaluating uphole recompletion opportunities in the Waseca and Rex zones to further unlock production potential.

    Luseland
    The Corporation continues to advance its growth trajectory at the Luseland pool, averaging production of 193 boe/d (100% oil) from July 1st to 23rd. This performance is supported by ongoing workovers, well reactivations, and field optimizations. In the past 10 days, five reactivated wells have been brought online, with two additional wells recently completed under Single Well Battery setups and awaiting start-up.

    Numerous other wells are currently undergoing optimization, including the installation of recycle pumps, application of sand suspension chemical treatments, increased pump speeds to accelerate fluid drawdown, flushby operations, and well loads to bring sand up the wellbore. These efforts are complemented by various initiatives aimed at reducing operating costs. Prospera’s engineering team is focused on well-by-well monitoring of all new reactivations to maximize production rates and enhance reservoir understanding while minimizing well failures and decline rates.

    Several high-performing Luseland wells are featured in the accompanying Key Wells Report, demonstrating the success of Prospera’s strategic focus on revitalizing legacy wells with significant original oil in place (OOIP). By reactivating these assets, the company is effectively converting wells previously classified as No Reserves Associated (NRA) and burdened solely with Asset Retirement Obligations (ARO) into actively producing wells with meaningful Proved Developed Producing (PDP) reserves—resulting in sustainable revenue generation and positive cash flow.

    Production, Workover Tracker, and Key Wells Report
    Prospera is enhancing its transparency measures with the publishing of its updated production, workover tracker, and key wells report. Production volumes on each field will continue to be reported on a monthly basis, along with corporate revenue information. A detailed workover tracker will share production rates from all workovers and reactivations completed, with information on capital spend and cumulative production since start-up to be added to the August iteration of this report. Additionally, numerous key wells and their production graphs are explained in detail as the company further proves out its highly capital-efficient workover and reactivation business model.

    Price Hedging
    The Corporation is pleased to announce that it has entered into a contract to hedge a portion of its oil production. From September 2025 through February 2026, Prospera has hedged 100 barrels of oil per day at an average price of approximately USD $67.00 per barrel of WTI. This strategic initiative is aimed at providing improved cash flow stability, strengthening corporate governance through proactive risk management, and capitalizing on current favorable market pricing. It represents a disciplined approach to managing commodity price exposure while preserving upside potential across the remainder of PEI’s production.

    Shares for Debt
    Prospera has entered into agreements with two vendors to settle outstanding trade payables through the issuance of common shares. The first vendor has agreed to settle a total of $28,900.45 through the issuance of 125,000 common shares at a deemed price of $0.231 per share. The second vendor has agreed to settle $7,392.55 through the issuance of 40,000 common shares at a deemed price of $0.185 per share. The shares will be subject to a trading restriction of four months and a day from the date of issuance and are subject to TSXV acceptance.

    Loan Amendment
    The Corporation announces a further amendment to its $11,000,000 promissory note, originally dated June 7, 2024, in collaboration with its principal lender. Following previous increases, an additional $2,000,000 has been added, bringing the total principal amount to $18,700,000. The note retains its original terms, including a 12% interest rate and a two-year maturity, with no other changes. The proceeds are earmarked specifically towards production-increasing capital projects. This amendment remains subject to acceptance by the TSXV.

    Promissory Note Update
    The Corporation provides an update regarding the previously disclosed one-year secured promissory note on January 9th, 2025. The promissory note component of the offering will now be unsecured. The placement closed with four subscribers, raising aggregate gross proceeds of $900,000. Each unit, priced at $1,000, consists of: (i) a one-year unsecured promissory note with a principal amount of $1,000, carrying a 12% annual interest rate, and (ii) 5,000 common share purchase warrants of the Corporation, exercisable at $0.05 for a period of one year, for a total of 4,500,000 warrants. Subscribers are entitled to a 5% gross overriding royalty (GORR) for every $1,000,000 of principal investment on revenue from all Prospera properties on incremental production above 1,363 barrels per day, calculated on a monthly average until the principal debt is fully repaid. Interest on the notes will accrue and be paid quarterly, accompanied by a 2% facility fee. This offering has been accepted by the TSX Venture Exchange.

    Insiders have participated in this offering for a principal amount of $800,000, which results in this being a Related Party Transaction pursuant to TSXV Policy 5.9 and MI 61-101. The Corporation is relying upon numerous exemptions under these policies with respect to minority approval and valuation requirements, including those found in section 5.5 (a), (b), and (c) and 5.7 (a) and (b). The following reporting Insiders have participated in this offering:

    Summerhill Investments Corp. subscribed for $500,000 and was issued an aggregate of 2,500,000 warrants, each exercisable at $0.05 per share for a period of one year from the date of issuance.

    Mantl Canada Inc. subscribed for $200,000 and was issued an aggregate of 1,000,000 warrants, each exercisable at $0.05 per share for a period of one year from the date of issuance.

    Countryman Investments Ltd. subscribed for $100,000 and was issued an aggregate of 500,000 warrants, each exercisable at $0.05 per share for a period of one year from the date of issuance.

    About Prospera
    Prospera Energy Inc. is a publicly traded Canadian energy company specializing in the exploration, development, and production of crude oil and natural gas. Headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Prospera is dedicated to optimizing recovery from legacy fields using environmentally safe and efficient reservoir development methods and production practices. The company’s core properties are strategically located in Saskatchewan and Alberta, including Cuthbert, Luseland, Hearts Hill, and Brooks. Prospera Energy Inc. is listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol PEI and the U.S. OTC Market under GXRFF.

    Prospera reports gross production at the first point of sale, excluding gas used in operations and volumes from partners in arrears, even if cash proceeds are received. Gross production represents Prospera’s working interest before royalties, while net production reflects its working interest after royalty deductions. These definitions align with ASC 51-324 to ensure consistency and transparency in reporting.

    For Further Information:

    Shawn Mehler, PR
    Email: investors@prosperaenergy.com

    Chris Ludtke, CFO
    Email: cludtke@prosperaenergy.com

    Shubham Garg, Chairman of the Board
    Email: sgarg@prosperaenergy.com

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
    This news release contains forward-looking statements relating to the future operations of the Corporation and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as “will,” “may,” “should,” “anticipate,” “expects” and similar expressions. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding future plans and objectives of the Corporation, are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements.

    Although Prospera believes that the expectations and assumptions on which the forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because Prospera can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. These include, but are not limited to, risks associated with the oil and gas industry in general (e.g., operational risks in development, exploration and production; delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures; the uncertainty of reserve estimates; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to production, costs and expenses, and health, safety and environmental risks), commodity price and exchange rate fluctuations and uncertainties resulting from potential delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures.

    The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Prospera. As a result, Prospera cannot guarantee that any forward-looking statement will materialize, and the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward- looking information. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release, and Prospera does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by Canadian securities law.

    Neither TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: LexinFintech Holdings Ltd. to Report Second Quarter 2025 Unaudited Financial Results on August 7, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHENZHEN, China, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LexinFintech Holdings Ltd. (“Lexin” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: LX), a leading technology-empowered personal financial service enabler in China, today announced that it will report its unaudited financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025, before the U.S. market opens on Thursday, August 7, 2025.

    The Company’s management will host an earnings conference call at 7:00 AM U.S. Eastern time on August 7, 2025 (7:00 PM Beijing/Hong Kong time on August 7, 2025).

    Participants who wish to join the conference call should register online at:
    https://s1.c-conf.com/diamondpass/10049362-fg8h6t.html

    Once registration is completed, each participant will receive the dial-in number and a unique access PIN for the conference call.

    Participants joining the conference call should dial in at least 10 minutes before the scheduled start time.

    A live and archived webcast of the conference call will also be available at the Company’s investor relations website at http://ir.lexin.com.

    About LexinFintech Holdings Ltd.

    We are a leading credit technology-empowered personal financial service enabler. Our mission is to use technology and risk management expertise to make financing more accessible for young generation consumers. We strive to achieve this mission by connecting consumers with financial institutions, where we facilitate through a unique model that includes online and offline channels, installment consumption platform, big data and AI driven credit risk management capabilities, as well as smart user and loan management systems. We also empower financial institutions by providing cutting-edge proprietary technology solutions to meet their needs of financial digital transformation.

    For more information, please visit http://ir.lexin.com.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact: 

    LexinFintech Holdings Ltd.
    IR inquiries:
    Will Tan
    Tel: +86 (755) 3637-8888 ext. 6258
    E-mail: willtan@lexin.com

    Media inquiries:
    Ruifeng Xu
    Tel: +86 (755) 3637-8888 ext. 6993
    E-mail: media@lexin.com

    SOURCE LexinFintech Holdings Ltd.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MEXC Launches ETH Launchpad for Ethereum’s 10th Anniversary: Users Share 100 ETH at Up to 90% Off

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, today announced it has launched its exclusive ETH Launchpad subscription event, offering users the opportunity to share 100 ETH at unprecedented discount rates of up to 90% off in celebration of Ethereum’s 10th anniversary.

    MEXC Launchpad is an innovative token issuance platform that provides users with guaranteed access to high-quality projects at discounted prices. In its previous BTC discount purchase event, MEXC Launchpad attracted over 90,000 participants, with 28,000 successful subscribers and a total subscription volume exceeding $3.3 million. New users achieved returns of up to 902.5%, with an annual percentage yield (APY) of 23,530.2%, while existing users earned 25.0% returns with an APY of 651.2%.

    Key Event Information

    Event Timeline

    • Subscription Period: July 31, 2025, 08:00 (UTC) – August 21, 2025, 08:00 (UTC)
    • Allocation Period: August 21, 2025, 08:00 (UTC) – August 21, 2025, 10:00 (UTC)

    Subscription Pools
    New User Exclusive Pool

    • Subscription Price: 360 USDT
    • Total Supply: 60 ETH
    • Min. Subscription: 100 USDT
    • Max. Subscription: 200 USDT

    To be eligible, new users must maintain a net deposit of at least 100 USDT, and complete at least 100 USDT in spot trading and 1,500 USDT in futures trading during the event period.

    MX Pool (All Users)

    • Subscription Price: 1,360 MX
    • Total Supply: 40 ETH
    • Min. Subscription: 50 MX
    • Max. Subscription: 6,000 MX

    To participate in the MX pool, users must complete at least 2,000 USDT in futures trading during the event.

    Referral Rewards
    Existing users can invite friends to join MEXC and share a 10,000 USDT bonus pool. Referrers will receive 20 USDT for each new user who signs up using their referral code and successfully subscribes to the USDT pool. Rewards are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

    How to Participate:

    1. Users must create a MEXC account (if they haven’t already) and register for the event.
    2. Participants are required to complete Advanced KYC verification.
    3. Complete any required tasks and subscribe with MX or USDT during the Subscription Period.
    4. Subscriptions will be locked for final calculation during the Allocation Period.

    MEXC’s User-First Philosophy

    This ETH Launchpad event embodies MEXC’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing user benefits above all else through industry-leading discount rates. With industry-leading token listing efficiency, over 3,000 digital assets available, exceptional trading depth, low trading fees, and robust security infrastructure, MEXC has become the preferred platform for an increasing number of traders worldwide. MEXC will continue to roll out innovative events and substantial rewards that empower users and enhance their trading experience.

    For more information and to participate in MEXC’s ETH Launchpad, please visit here.

    About MEXC
    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto.” Serving over 40 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, daily airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.
    MEXC Official Website｜ X ｜ Telegram ｜How to Sign Up on MEXC

    For media inquiries, please contact MEXC PR team: media@mexc.com

    Risk Disclaimer:
    The information provided in this article regarding cryptocurrencies does not constitute investment advice. Given the highly volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market, investors are encouraged to carefully assess market fluctuations, the fundamentals of projects, and potential financial risks before making any trading decisions.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/02b063d4-732c-424b-aaa3-69b4ec191fdf

    The MIL Network –