Source: Reserve Bank of India
Ajit Prasad Press Release: 2025-2026/679 |
Category: CTF
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MIL-OSI Economics: Result of the 2-day Variable Rate Reverse Repo (VRRR) auction held on July 09, 2025
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MIL-Evening Report: Can’t fill your ADHD script? Here’s why, and what to do while the shortage persists
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jack Janetzki, Lecturer in Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of South Australia
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses are rising across Australia.
But after finally getting a diagnosis, many people are discovering the medicine they’ve been prescribed isn’t available at the pharmacy.
Australia faces a nation-wide shortage of methylphenidate (sold as Concerta and Ritalin).
What does it mean for people with ADHD?
ADHD medication shortages have persisted since 2023, with shortages of lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse), and are now affecting more people.
Many people with ADHD have to call multiple pharmacies to find their medication. They might be put on waiting lists to access their prescribed medications, or have to contact their doctor or their child’s doctor to get a new script for a different medication.
Some people with ADHD are switching between strengths or changing to different medicines. This can mean starting again with slow dose changes, and can result in poor symptom control and more side effects.
Some people have had to skip doses or go without medicine altogether, making it hard to concentrate, stay organised and manage emotions.
Shortages can also increase inequality. People in rural areas with fewer pharmacies, for example, have more difficulty accessing these medications.
And people with fewer financial resources are less able to access alternative medications that aren’t subsidised.
Increasing access to diagnosis and treatment
Around 8% of children and 2.5% of adults in Australia have ADHD. It makes it hard to focus, sit still, and/or control impulses. For many, medication helps manage these symptoms.
Diagnosis has often involved seeing a specialist such as psychiatrist or paediatrician.
But from September, GPs in New South Wales will be able to continue ADHD prescriptions without needing specialist approval. In 2026, GPs in South Australia and Western Australia will be able to diagnose ADHD and start treatment.
However, ongoing shortages may still stop people from getting the medicine they need.
Why are these medicines running out?
These shortages are largely due to manufacturing issues – including problems sourcing raw ingredients and production quotas in the United States.
When one brand runs out, it puts pressure on other brands. This creates a domino effect across the supply chain.
There is also increasing demand.
In 2022-2023 almost 470,000 Australians were prescribed ADHD medications. That’s four times the number from nine years earlier.
From January 2024 to May 2025, the number of prescriptions filled increased further, by 60% for dexamfetamine, 88% for methylphenidate and 140% for lisdexamfetamine.
Scripts filled for ADHD stimulants from January 2024 to May 2025.
CC BYShortages of several strengths and brands of menthylphenidate (Concerta and Ritalin) and are expected to continue into late 2025. Both the long-acting and short-acting types are affected.
Pharmacies can’t always help
Stimulants to treat ADHD are tightly controlled. Pharmacies can only supply one-month of medicine at a time.
In some states such as NSW, paper prescriptions for tightly controlled medicines must be filled at the same pharmacy each time. So patients have not been able to get their medicine elsewhere even if it’s in stock.
In response to the methylphenidate shortages, NSW Health has allowed pharmacies to transfer paper prescriptions to other pharmacists that have stock available. This change is temporary but helpful.
This rule is different in other states such as Victoria and South Australia, where people are able to visit or call other pharmacies to see if they have stock.
However, ideally a patient will be able to build a rapport with one main pharmacy – and the pharmacy will know exactly how many regular patients they need to get stock for.
What are regulators doing about it?
The national medicines regulator, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has set up a group called the Medicine Shortage Action Groups to respond to the methylphenidate shortage.
This group includes members from health professional groups and peak bodies. It will give advice to health professionals and are creating resources for patients, families and schools about the shortages and how to reduce disruptions to their or their child’s treatment.
The TGA has also recently approved the temporary use of some methylphenidate brands from overseas.
Some of these are now listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, which means they are available at a subsidised price.
The body representing physicians, the Royal Australasian College of Physicians, has called for early warnings about shortages. That way, doctors can help patients change to alternatives before it’s too late.
What can you do if you can’t get a script filled?
If you’re finding it hard to get your ADHD medicine:
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talk to your pharmacist. They may be able to order an overseas-registered alternative or suggest a different brand
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speak with your GP, psychiatrist or your child’s paediatrician. They might adjust your or your child’s dose or suggest a different medication for their ADHD. This might mean changing to another stimulant that is available in a short- or long-acting formulation or by changing to a medicine for ADHD that is not a stimulant. Ask your physician to contact the pharmacy to see what they have in stock while you’re at your appointment
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check the TGA’s Medicine Shortage Reports Database for updates on when the medicine might become available.
If you’re calling around to find stock:
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call mid-morning to see if they’ve got stock. Pharmacies are generally less busy after the morning rush
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say exactly what medicine, strength and brand you are looking for. If you don’t mind which brand be sure to tell the pharmacist
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keep a list of pharmacies so you don’t double up
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if you live in a rural area and find that a pharmacy in a nearby town has stock, ask if they can courier the medication to you.
Jack Janetzki works for Pharmaceutical Defence Limited and The Barossa Pharmacist in the Mall (Nuriootpa, South Australia). He is a member of Pharmaceutical Defence Limited, the Australasian Pharmaceutical Science Association, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia and the Observational Health Data Science Informatics network.
Lisa Kalisch Ellett is president of the Australasian Pharmaceutical Science Association and a member of the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia.
– ref. Can’t fill your ADHD script? Here’s why, and what to do while the shortage persists – https://theconversation.com/cant-fill-your-adhd-script-heres-why-and-what-to-do-while-the-shortage-persists-259911
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MIL-OSI NGOs: Climate crisis tripled death toll of Europe’s latest heatwave: Greenpeace calls for polluters to pay
Source: Greenpeace Statement –
Amsterdam – Responding to a rapid study by scientists at Imperial College London and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine that found that the number of heat-related deaths across 12 European cities tripled due to the climate crisis in the 10 day period between 23 June and 2 July, as well as to preliminary data published by the Copernicus Climate Change Service that June 2025 was the hottest ever June for Western Europe and the third-warmest June globally.[1][2]
Ian Duff, Head of Greenpeace International’s Stop Drilling Start Paying campaign said: “It is society’s most vulnerable – in Milan, Barcelona, Paris, London and elsewhere – who suffer most in the midst of record temperatures. Europe’s dependence and soft hand on oil and gas corporations who are fueling this extreme heat is giving a death blow to our parents and grandparents.”
“This heatwave comes when public finances are already stretched and it is only fair that those most responsible are made to pay. For European cities to become safe spaces for society’s most vulnerable, polluters like Shell and TotalEnergies must face fines and taxes to pay for soaring climate and health costs.”
Beyond excess mortality, the latest heatwave in Europe resulted in restrictions on outdoor work hours in Italy, the closure of more than 2,200 schools in France, and wildfires breaking out in Greece, Spain, and Turkey.
Eight out of 10 people support taxing oil and gas corporations to pay for climate damages, according to a global survey commissioned by Greenpeace International and Oxfam International. The two organisations are part of the Polluters Pay Pact, a global alliance of over 170,000 people, including first responders like firefighters, humanitarian groups and political leaders. It demands that governments around the world make oil, coal and gas corporations pay their fair share for the damages they cause
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Notes:
[1] “Climate change tripled heatwave death toll in European cities during last week’s heatwave” – Imperial College London and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine
[2] “Third-warmest June globally – Heatwaves in Europe amid temperature extremes across both hemispheres” – Copernicus
Contact:
Tal Harris, Global Media Lead – Greenpeace International’s Stop Drilling Start Paying campaign, +41-782530550, [email protected]
Greenpeace International Press Desk: [email protected], +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)
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India and Brazil reaffirm strategic partnership with roadmap for next decade
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a State Visit to Brazil on Tuesday at the invitation of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, with both leaders pledging to deepen ties across a wide range of strategic areas.
In a joint statement, the two nations reaffirmed their commitment to bolster the India-Brazil Strategic Partnership, describing their shared vision as rooted in common values and aimed at advancing peace, prosperity and sustainable development.
Defence and Security
PM Modi and President Lula welcomed growing military collaboration, including joint exercises and senior‐level visits. They noted the recent Agreement on the Exchange and Mutual Protection of Classified Information, and established a Bilateral Cybersecurity Dialogue to share expertise on cyber threats. Both condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and voiced Brazil’s solidarity with India. They condemned all forms of terrorism and agreed to deepen action against UN-designated groups such as Lashkar-e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad, including measures at the UN and FATF. An agreement to combat international terrorism and organized crime was also signed, and both leaders pledged support for the UN Convention on Cybercrime at its signing in Hanoi next year.
They called for UN Security Council reform, backing expansion in permanent and non-permanent seats with fair representation for Asia, Africa and Latin America. Brazil reaffirmed support for India’s bid for a non-permanent Council seat in 2028–29, while India endorsed Brazil’s aspiration for permanent membership. The two urged a UN Charter review conference in 2025, marking the Organization’s 80th anniversary.
On Middle East peace, both leaders urged a return to diplomacy, endorsing a two-state solution alongside safe humanitarian access in Gaza and backing UNRWA’s mandate. They also called for renewed dialogue to end hostilities in Ukraine.
Food and Nutritional Security
As leading agricultural producers, India and Brazil agreed to advance sustainable farming, fair trade and public stockholding for food security. They reaffirmed the goal of eradicating hunger by 2030 and pledged support for the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty. Joint research on crop productivity, animal genetics and biotechnology will be encouraged through collaboration between national R&D bodies.
Energy Transition and Climate Action
The leaders underscored strong collaboration on bioenergy and biofuels, reaffirming their commitment to the Global Biofuels Alliance and exploring sustainable aviation fuel. PM Modi welcomed Brazil’s ‘Tropical Forests Forever Fund’ and India confirmed its support for Brazil’s presidency of COP30 in Belém next year.
Both sides agreed to step up collaboration on climate finance, sustainable development, and a stronger, fairer international financial system, while urging developed countries to meet their Official Development Assistance commitments.
Digital Cooperation and Emerging Tech
Acknowledging the transformative potential of digital public infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and quantum technologies, the two countries signed an MoU to deepen cooperation. India and Brazil pledged to work together on global digital governance and boost direct ties between their innovation ecosystems.
Industrial Partnerships
Both leaders noted growing bilateral investment flows and agreed to streamline visa processes to boost business and tourism. They invited closer ties in pharmaceuticals- highlighting Indian API firms in Brazil-aviation, defence equipment, mining, and oil and gas, including carbon capture technologies. A ministerial Commerce and Trade Review Mechanism will oversee the implementation of the 2020 Bilateral Investment Cooperation and Facilitation Treaty and the 2022 Double Taxation Protocol.
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MIL-OSI Russia: China’s energy consumption per unit of GDP fell 11.6 percent in the first four years of the 14th Five-Year Plan
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, July 9 (Xinhua) — China’s energy consumption per unit of GDP fell by 11.6 percent in the first four years of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), Zheng Shanjie, head of the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), said Wednesday.
According to Zheng Shanjie, the reduction in this figure is equivalent to reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 1.1 billion tons, which is almost 50 percent of the total carbon dioxide emissions in the European Union in 2024.
“China’s actions have fully demonstrated its capacity as a responsible country,” Zheng Shanjie said.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
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MIL-OSI Russia: China’s economy is capable of withstanding any external shocks – Premier of the State Council of China
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
RIO DE JANEIRO, July 9 (Xinhua) — China’s economy is fully capable of withstanding any external shocks and achieving long-term stable growth, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said on Tuesday.
Speaking at a symposium for Chinese-invested enterprises operating in Brazil, Li Qiang said that since the beginning of this year, the Chinese economy has withstood the pressure and maintained a stable and positive dynamic.
Symposium participants included heads of local branches of Bank of China, Great Wall Motor, State Grid, Goldwind Sci
After listening to the speeches, Li Qiang noted that in recent years, Chinese enterprises have accelerated their pace of entering the international market and improved their international operations capabilities, playing an increasingly important role in stimulating the domestic economy.
Li Qiang said the first half of the year showed China’s economic growth was resilient, with domestic demand buoyant and innovation highlights.
Noting that China’s economy will always provide firm support to Chinese companies operating overseas, the premier said the government will provide enterprises with better services and guarantees, strengthen the establishment of various mechanisms and platforms for economic and trade cooperation, and improve the overseas one-stop service system.
Li Qiang added that more active policy support will be provided in areas such as policy advice, financing, credit insurance and security to create a better environment for enterprises and promote their development.
The current global economic and trade landscape is undergoing profound changes due to the rise of unilateralism and protectionism, as well as increasing trade and investment barriers, the Prime Minister noted. At the same time, a new wave of technological revolution and industrial transformation is underway, creating both challenges and opportunities for businesses, he added.
Li Qiang expressed hope that Chinese companies can adapt to this trend and take proactive actions. They should build strong brands, strengthen planning, and enhance the global competitiveness of the “Made in China” and “Created in China” brands, he added.
It is important to deeply explore local markets, providing consumers with more products and services in line with market demand, Li Qiang said. He said Chinese companies should use Brazil as a platform to enter the wider Latin American market and strive for greater development.
The Premier noted that Chinese enterprises should respect local laws, regulations and cultural traditions, operate in accordance with legal requirements, actively fulfill social responsibilities and strive to build a responsible image.
The symposium participants said that Chinese enterprises will give full play to their strengths and characteristics, expand cooperation, effectively respond to various challenges, take root locally, and remain committed to operating in accordance with laws and regulations.
They also promised to continue to expand their presence in areas such as finance, energy, agriculture and scientific and technological innovation, maintain a positive image of Chinese enterprises abroad, promote closer economic and trade ties between China and Brazil as well as other Latin American countries, and achieve win-win results. –0–
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
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MIL-OSI Russia: Three killed in Houthi attack on cargo ship in Red Sea
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Aden, Yemen, July 9 (Xinhua) — Three sailors were killed and two others were wounded when Yemeni Houthi militants attacked a Liberian-flagged cargo ship in the Red Sea, a Yemeni navy spokesman told Xinhua on Tuesday.
The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Houthi militants attacked the Greek-owned vessel Eternity C at 20:00 local time /1700 GMT/ on Monday in the Red Sea, just hours after the group claimed responsibility for the sinking of another ship, the bulk carrier Magic Seas.
The official said Houthi militants boarded the Eternity C in an attempt to seize the vessel, sparking violent clashes with the ship’s crew that left three sailors dead and two others wounded.
The collision caused significant damage to the ship’s turret, leaving the vessel adrift and the surviving crew members forced to abandon ship, the official said.
The latest incident was the second major attack since the Houthi group claimed to have sunk the Magic Seas, also a Liberian-flagged vessel.
The Magic Seas was carrying about 17,000 metric tons of ammonium nitrate, a chemical commonly used in the production of fertilizers and explosives, a Yemeni official said.
Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saria said on Monday that the attack on the Magic Seas was in response to the shipowner’s “repeated violations” of a Houthi ban on entering Israeli ports.
The Houthi group has so far made no statements or comments regarding the Eternity C attack. –0–
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
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MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Ministry of Commerce Adds 8 Taiwanese Business Entities to Export Control List /detailed version-1/
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, July 9 (Xinhua) — China’s Ministry of Commerce on Wednesday announced it has added eight economic entities from the Taiwan region of China to an export control list.
The entities intentionally collaborated with separatist forces advocating for “Taiwan independence,” a ministry spokesman said.
The decision was made to protect national sovereignty, territorial integrity, as well as peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, and in accordance with Chinese laws and regulations, the spokesman said.
The export of dual-use items by these 8 economic entities will be prohibited, the ministry representative said, stressing that no exporter should violate the above-mentioned control measures. -0-
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
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MIL-OSI Russia: In 2021-2024, the contribution of domestic demand to China’s economic growth averaged 86.4%.
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, July 9 (Xinhua) — China’s economy maintained an average annual growth rate of 5.5 percent from 2021 to 2024, with domestic demand contributing 86.4 percent to the country’s economic growth, Yuan Da, secretary-general of the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), said at a press conference on Wednesday.
Yuan Da noted that during the above-mentioned period, the contribution of consumption to China’s economic growth averaged 56.2 percent, which is 8.6 percentage points more than during the 13th Five-Year Plan period (2016-2020). -0-
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
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MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese cities and towns to create more than 12 million new jobs annually since 2021: official
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, July 9 (Xinhua) — China’s cities and towns have created more than 12 million new jobs every year since the start of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025).
This has ensured relatively sufficient employment in the developing country with a population of more than 1.4 billion people, Zhou Haibing, deputy head of China’s National Development and Reform Commission, said at a press conference on Wednesday. -0-
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
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MIL-OSI Russia: China retains status as world’s largest producer for 15 years running – official
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, July 9 (Xinhua) — China has remained the world’s largest manufacturer for 15 consecutive years, said Zheng Shanjie, head of China’s National Development and Reform Commission, who introduced China’s achievements in economic and social development during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025) and answered questions from media representatives at a press conference on Wednesday.
According to Zheng Shanjie, since 2021, the added value of China’s manufacturing industry has increased by more than 30 trillion yuan (about 4.2 trillion US dollars) per year, and China ranks first in the world in terms of output of more than 220 major industrial products. -0-
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
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MIL-OSI Russia: From 2021 to May 2025, China’s FDI totaled 4.7 trillion yuan
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, July 9 (Xinhua) — Foreign direct investment in China will reach 4.7 trillion yuan (about 657 billion U.S. dollars) from 2021 to May 2025, Zhou Haibing, vice-chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), said at a press conference on Wednesday.
He noted that this figure exceeded the total amount recorded for the period of the 13th five-year plan /2016-2020/. -0-
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
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MIL-OSI China: China’s PPI down 3.6% in June
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
China’s producer price index (PPI), which measures costs for goods at the factory gate, went down 3.6 percent year on year in June, the National Bureau of Statistics said Wednesday.
On a month-on-month basis, the PPI dropped 0.4 percent in June, according to the NBS data.
In the first half of 2025, the PPI dropped by 2.8 percent year on year, the data showed.
NBS statistician Dong Lijuan attributed the decline in the PPI to seasonal drops in prices across certain domestic raw material manufacturing industries, lower energy prices driven by increased solar, wind and hydropower generation, and price pressures faced by some export-led sectors.
China’s consumer price index, a main gauge of inflation, was up 0.1 percent year on year in June.
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MIL-OSI China: China’s PPI down 3.6% in June
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
China’s producer price index (PPI), which measures costs for goods at the factory gate, went down 3.6 percent year on year in June, the National Bureau of Statistics said Wednesday.
On a month-on-month basis, the PPI dropped 0.4 percent in June, according to the NBS data.
In the first half of 2025, the PPI dropped by 2.8 percent year on year, the data showed.
NBS statistician Dong Lijuan attributed the decline in the PPI to seasonal drops in prices across certain domestic raw material manufacturing industries, lower energy prices driven by increased solar, wind and hydropower generation, and price pressures faced by some export-led sectors.
China’s consumer price index, a main gauge of inflation, was up 0.1 percent year on year in June.
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MIL-OSI China: China CPI up 0.1% in June
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
China’s consumer price index (CPI), a main gauge of inflation, was up 0.1 percent year on year in June, data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed Wednesday.
The CPI in urban regions rose 0.1 percent year on year last month, while that in the rural regions was down 0.2 percent, according to the data.
On a monthly basis, the CPI dipped 0.1 percent in June, the data showed.
In the first half of 2025, the country’s CPI posted a 0.1-percent decline compared with the same period last year, according to the NBS.
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MIL-OSI China: China CPI up 0.1% in June
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
China’s consumer price index (CPI), a main gauge of inflation, was up 0.1 percent year on year in June, data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed Wednesday.
The CPI in urban regions rose 0.1 percent year on year last month, while that in the rural regions was down 0.2 percent, according to the data.
On a monthly basis, the CPI dipped 0.1 percent in June, the data showed.
In the first half of 2025, the country’s CPI posted a 0.1-percent decline compared with the same period last year, according to the NBS.
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MIL-OSI China: China’s 2021-2025 economic increment projected to exceed 35 trillion yuan: Official
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
China’s State Council Information Office holds a press conference on the country’s high-quality fulfillment of targets set for the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), in Beijing, capital of China, July 9, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
China’s economy has demonstrated remarkable resilience during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), with its economic increment projected to exceed 35 trillion yuan (4.89 trillion U.S. dollars).
Over the first four years of the period, the economy expanded at an average annual growth rate of 5.5 percent, Zheng Shanjie, head of the National Development and Reform Commission, said Wednesday at a press conference.
Despite the shocks of the pandemic and trade bullying, China’s growth is an unprecedented achievement given its vast economic scale, Zheng said.
Highlighting the great economic dynamism, Zheng said the country’s total R&D expenditure surged nearly 50 percent, or 1.2 trillion yuan, from 2020 to 2024, and the number of registered private enterprises surpassed 58 million at the end of May 2025, over 40 percent higher than 2020.
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MIL-OSI China: China’s 2021-2025 economic increment projected to exceed 35 trillion yuan: Official
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
China’s State Council Information Office holds a press conference on the country’s high-quality fulfillment of targets set for the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), in Beijing, capital of China, July 9, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
China’s economy has demonstrated remarkable resilience during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), with its economic increment projected to exceed 35 trillion yuan (4.89 trillion U.S. dollars).
Over the first four years of the period, the economy expanded at an average annual growth rate of 5.5 percent, Zheng Shanjie, head of the National Development and Reform Commission, said Wednesday at a press conference.
Despite the shocks of the pandemic and trade bullying, China’s growth is an unprecedented achievement given its vast economic scale, Zheng said.
Highlighting the great economic dynamism, Zheng said the country’s total R&D expenditure surged nearly 50 percent, or 1.2 trillion yuan, from 2020 to 2024, and the number of registered private enterprises surpassed 58 million at the end of May 2025, over 40 percent higher than 2020.
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MIL-OSI China: China’s commerce ministry adds 8 Taiwan entities to export control list
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
The Ministry of Commerce announced on Wednesday that it has added 8 entities from China’s Taiwan region to the export control list.
These companies have deliberately cooperated with the “Taiwan independence” separatist forces, a spokesperson for the ministry said in a statement.
The decision was made to maintain national sovereignty, territorial integrity, as well as peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and in accordance with Chinese laws and regulations, according to the statement.
The export of dual-use items to these 8 companies will be prohibited, the spokesperson said, stressing that no exporter will be allowed to violate these control measures.
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MIL-OSI New Zealand: Drugs taken off Waikato streets
Source: New Zealand Police
Police have seized a gun, cash and over half a kilogram of cocaine in an operation targeting drug suppliers in Matamata-Piako today.
Officers found more than half a kilogram of cocaine, a pump action shotgun and $20,000 dollars when they visited properties in Matamata and Cambridge this morning.
“The two warrants executed today are the result of an investigation into the supply of drugs in the area,” says Detective Sergeant Ben Norman.
“Police will remain focused on targeting gang members involved in the distribution of illicit drugs, aiming to remove these harmful drugs from our communities.”
A half-kilo bag and five 1-ounce bags of cocaine were located at a Matamata address, as well as a pump action shotgun. One ounce is 28 grams.
A further 3 ounces of cocaine and $20,000 were seized from a Cambridge address.
“Police simply will not tolerate gangs making money from inflicting misery on our communities.
“They feed people’s addiction, and that in turn fuels crime, with people stealing to feed their habit.
The supply of illegal drugs causes untold harm and we will do everything we can to tackle it.
A 39-year-old man has been remanded in custody and is due to re-appear in the Hamilton District Court on 28 July, facing drug and firearms charges.
Further charges are being considered for a person found at the Cambridge address.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre.
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Trump, Netanyahu meet a second time as gaps said to narrow in Gaza ceasefire talks
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday met for a second time in two days with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss Gaza as Trump’s Middle East envoy said Israel and Hamas were closing their differences on a ceasefire deal.
The Israeli leader departed the White House on Tuesday evening after just over an hour’s meeting with Trump in the Oval Office, with no press access. The two men also met for several hours during a dinner at the White House on Monday during Netanyahu’s third U.S. visit since the president began his second term on January 20.
Netanyahu met with Vice President JD Vance and then visited the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday, and is due back in Congress on Wednesday to meet with U.S. Senate leaders.
He told reporters after a meeting with the Republican House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson that while he did not think Israel’s campaign in the Palestinian enclave was done, negotiators are “certainly working” on a ceasefire.
“We have still to finish the job in Gaza, release all our hostages, eliminate and destroy Hamas’ military and government capabilities,” Netanyahu said.
Shortly after Netanyahu spoke, Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, said the issues keeping Israel and Hamas from agreeing had dropped to one from four and he hoped to reach a temporary ceasefire agreement this week.
“We are hopeful that by the end of this week, we’ll have an agreement that will bring us into a 60-day ceasefire. Ten live hostages will be released. Nine deceased will be released,” Witkoff told reporters at a meeting of Trump’s Cabinet.
A delegation from Qatar, which has been hosting indirect talks between Israeli negotiators and the Hamas Palestinian militant group, met with senior White House officials for several hours before Netanyahu’s arrival on Tuesday, Axios reported, citing a source familiar with the details.
The White House had no immediate comment on the report.
The Gaza war erupted when Hamas attacked southern Israel in October 2023, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages, according to Israeli figures. Some 50 hostages remain in Gaza, with 20 believed to be alive.
Israel’s retaliatory war in Gaza has killed over 57,000 Palestinians, according to the enclave’s health ministry. Most of Gaza’s population has been displaced by the war and nearly half a million people are facing famine within months, according to United Nations estimates.
Trump had strongly supported Netanyahu, even wading into domestic Israeli politics by criticizing prosecutors over a corruption trial against the Israeli leader on bribery, fraud and breach-of-trust charges that Netanyahu denies.
In his remarks to reporters at the U.S. Congress, Netanyahu praised Trump, saying there has never been closer coordination between the U.S. and Israel in his country’s history.
(Reuters)
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FBI launches probes into former FBI, CIA directors, Fox News reports
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
The FBI has launched criminal probes into former CIA Director John Brennan and former FBI Director James Comey, Fox News Digital reported on Tuesday, citing sources.
The probes are over alleged wrongdoing related to past government investigations about claims of Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. elections in which President Donald Trump defeated former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, the news report said.
The CIA and the Justice Department had no immediate comment. The FBI declined to comment.
The scope of the criminal investigations into Brennan and Comey was unclear, the report added. Trump-nominated CIA Director John Ratcliffe referred Brennan, who served in that role under former Democratic President Barack Obama, for potential prosecution, according to the report.
A criminal investigation does not necessarily result in charges. Brennan did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Comey could not immediately be reached.
Fox said its sources were from the Justice Department but did not specify the number of sources.
“I am glad to see that the Department of Justice is opening up this investigation,” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told Fox News’ “Jesse Watters Primetime” show in an interview.
The probes reportedly target two former officials who have long drawn the ire of Trump and his supporters for their role in investigating Russian interference in the 2016 election.
Comey led the FBI when authorities began a criminal investigation in 2016 into potential coordination between the Trump campaign and the Russian government to influence the election. Trump fired Comey in 2017 early in his first term after Comey publicly confirmed Trump was under investigation.
The probe was then taken over by former Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who found no evidence of a criminal conspiracy between Trump’s 2016 campaign and Russia.
Trump railed against the investigation for years and has repeatedly dismissed it as the “Russia hoax.”
Brennan led the CIA when U.S. intelligence assessed, in a report made public in January 2017, that Russian President Vladimir Putin sought to sway the 2016 U.S. vote in favor of Trump.
A CIA review released last week found flaws in the preparation of the 2017 assessment, but it did not contest its underlying conclusion.
The Fox News report on the investigations broke as Trump’s top officials at the FBI and Justice Department faced online criticism from some Trump supporters for concluding that there was no evidence to support long-held conspiracy theories about the death of accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein.
During Trump’s first term, the Justice Department appointed a separate special counsel, John Durham, to examine any missteps in the FBI’s Russia investigation. Durham brought charges against three lower-level figures who worked on the probe or provided information to investigators, but did not find evidence of a conspiracy to target Trump.
(Reuters)
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Latest Red Sea attack on Greek ship kills four crew, wounds two
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
A drone and speedboat attack off Yemen killed four seafarers on a Liberian-flagged, Greek-operated bulk carrier, an official with knowledge of the matter said on Tuesday, the second incident in a day, following months of calm.
Traffic in the Red Sea, a key waterway for oil and commodities, has dropped since Yemen’s Houthi militia aligned with Iran began targeting ships in 2023 in what it called solidarity with Palestinians under assault in Israel’s war in Gaza.
The deaths on the Eternity C, the first involving shipping in the Red Sea since June 2024, take to eight the total of seafarers killed in the Red Sea attacks.
One more injured crew died on board after the attack, a source with knowledge of the matter said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
The Houthis have not commented on the Eternity C, but hours earlier claimed responsibility for a strike on another Liberia-flagged, Greek-operated bulk carrier, the MV Magic Seas, off southwest Yemen on Sunday, saying the vessel sank.
“After several months of calm, the resumption of deplorable attacks in the Red Sea constitutes a renewed violation of international law and freedom of navigation,” IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez said on Tuesday.
The U.S. State Department condemned the “unprovoked Houthi terror attack on the civilian cargo vessels MV Magic Seas and MV Eternity C”, as demonstrating the threats the Houthis posed to freedom of navigation and regional security.
Washington “will continue to take necessary action to protect freedom of navigation and commercial shipping,” it added in a statement.
The Eternity C’s operator, Cosmoship Management, was not immediately available to comment.
Eternity C, with 21 Philippine nationals and a Russian making up a crew of 22, was adrift and listing after the attack with sea drones and rocket-propelled grenades fired from manned speed boats, maritime security sources told Reuters.
Greece was in diplomatic talks with Saudi Arabia over the incident, sources said, as two maritime security firms, including Greece-based Diaplous, prepared to mount a rescue mission for the crew trapped on Eternity C.
An official with Aspides, the European Union’s mission assigned to help protect Red Sea shipping, also said at least two other crew were injured. Earlier, Liberia’s shipping delegation told a U.N. meeting that two crew were killed.
The Houthis released a video they said depicted their attack on the Magic Seas, including the Mayday call, explosions, and the vessel’s ultimate submersion. Reuters could not independently verify the footage.
The vessel’s manager said the information about the sinking could not be verified.
But Joshua Hutchinson, managing director of maritime security firm Ambrey, told Reuters it had a response vessel in the area and confirmed the Magic Seas had gone down.
All crew on the Magic Seas were rescued by a passing merchant vessel and arrived safely in Djibouti on Monday, Djibouti authorities said.
Since November 2023, the Houthis have disrupted commerce by launching hundreds of drones and missiles at vessels in the Red Sea, saying they were targeting ships linked to Israel.
While the Houthis struck a ceasefire with Washington in May, the militia has vowed to keep attacking ships it says are connected with Israel.
“Just as Liberia was processing the shock and grief of the attack against Magic Seas, we received a report that Eternity C again has been attacked … causing the death of two seafarers,” Liberia’s delegation told a session of the International Maritime Organization.
‘ELEVATED RISKS’
Both vessels attacked were part of commercial fleets whose sister vessels have called at Israeli ports over the past year.
“The pause in Houthi activity did not necessarily indicate a change in underlying intent,” said Ellie Shafik, head of intelligence with the Britain-based maritime risk management company Vanguard Tech.
“As long as the conflict in Gaza persists, vessels with affiliations, both perceived and actual, will continue to face elevated risks.”
The Philippines has urged its seafarers, who form one of the world’s largest groups of merchant mariners, to exercise their right to refuse to sail in “high-risk, war-like” areas, including the Red Sea after the latest strikes, its department of migrant workers said.
Shipping traffic through the region has shrunk about half from normal levels since the first Houthi attacks in 2023, said Jakob Larsen, chief safety and security officer with shipping association BIMCO.
“This reduction in traffic has persisted due to the ongoing unpredictability of the security situation,” Larsen said. “As such, BIMCO does not anticipate the recent attacks will significantly alter current shipping patterns.”
Monday’s attack on Eternity C, 50 nautical miles southwest of Yemen’s port of Hodeidah, was the second on merchant vessels in the region since November 2024, an official at Aspides said.
On Monday, Israel’s military said it had struck Houthi targets at three Yemeni ports and a power plant, in its first attack on Yemen in a month.
The Houthis say their attacks are an act of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza where Israel’s military assault since late 2023 has killed more than 57,000 people, Gaza authorities say.
The Israeli assault has unleashed a hunger crisis, internally displaced the entire population of Gaza and spurred accusations of genocide at the International Court of Justice and of war crimes at the International Criminal Court.
Israel denies the accusations.
The latest bloodshed in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict was triggered in October 2023, when Palestinian Hamas militants attacked Israel, killing 1,200 and taking about 250 hostages, Israeli tallies show.
(Reuters)
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Trump to attend Club World Cup final, FIFA opens office in Trump Tower
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
U.S. President Donald Trump will attend Sunday’s Club World Cup final in East Rutherford, New Jersey, he said at a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, as world soccer’s ruling body FIFA announced it had opened an office in New York’s Trump Tower.
The expanded tournament featuring many of the world’s best club teams has been widely seen as a dry run for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico with a record 48 national teams taking part.
Sunday’s Club World Cup final at MetLife Stadium will be a preview of next year’s championship match, with the home of the NFL’s New York Jets and Giants also hosting the 2026 finale.
“I’ll be going to the game,” Trump told reporters.
The news came a day after FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced the opening of a representative office at Trump Tower, where the Club World Cup trophy will be on display until the final.
“We have received such a big support from the government and from the President with the White House Task Force for the FIFA Club World Cup (now) and for the FIFA World Cup next year,” Infantino said.
Trump has not shied away from sport’s super-sized spotlight during his second term, becoming the first sitting president to attend a Super Bowl in February, and in May announcing D.C. as the host for the 2027 NFL Draft from the Oval Office.
His immigration crackdown and travel ban on 12 countries have prompted concerns ahead of the 2026 World Cup, however, even as Infantino offered assurances that the world will be welcomed in the U.S. for the quadrennial global showpiece event.
A memo obtained by Reuters last month showed that the Trump administration was considering significantly expanding its travel restrictions by potentially banning citizens of 36 additional countries from entering the U.S.
(Reuters)
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UAE authorities clarify Golden Visa rules amid misleading claims
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security has moved to clarify widespread confusion surrounding UAE Golden Visa requirements after multiple Indian news outlets reported that nationals could secure lifetime residency simply by paying AED 100,000 through unauthorized consultancy services.
A Golden Visa is a long-term residency permit that grants foreign nationals the right to live, work, and study in the UAE for extended periods, typically 10 years, with renewal options. Unlike traditional residence visas that require continuous employment or business sponsorship, Golden Visas offer greater independence and stability, allowing holders to sponsor family members, own property, establish businesses, and maintain residency even during extended periods abroad.
The authority categorically denied recent reports suggesting that lifetime Golden Visas could be obtained by certain nationalities through external consultancy firms. These claims, which circulated widely across Indian media platforms and social media channels, have been declared inaccurate and without legal basis.
Official sources confirmed that all Golden Visa applications must be processed exclusively through official government channels within the UAE, with no internal or external consultancy entity recognized as an authorized party in the application process. The categories, conditions, and regulations of the Golden Visa remain clearly defined in accordance with official laws, available on the Authority’s website and smart application.
The confusion appears to have originated from reports about a new nomination-based pathway that was being developed as a pilot program. While the UAE has introduced various Golden Visa categories beyond traditional investment requirements, including pathways for skilled professionals in fields such as science, technology, medicine, education, and arts, these applications still require proper nomination procedures and extensive vetting processes.
Recent media coverage had suggested that Indians could bypass traditional investment requirements of AED 2 million in property or substantial business investments by simply paying the lower fee through consultancy services. This representation significantly mischaracterized the actual requirements and approval processes involved in Golden Visa applications.
The Authority observed that news articles from consultancy offices based in other countries had been suggesting that lifetime Golden Visas could be obtained from outside the UAE via consulting entities under simplified conditions. These claims were made without coordination with relevant UAE authorities and have no legal foundation.
The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to providing a safe and transparent environment for applicants through official digital platforms exclusively. Legal action will be taken against entities spreading false information in attempts to illegally collect money from individuals aspiring to live and reside in the UAE.
Currently, the UAE allows applications under twelve official Golden Visa categories, including paths for investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, outstanding students, humanitarian pioneers, and frontline heroes. Five additional categories introduced in 2025 cover nurses, educators, content creators, e-sports professionals, and luxury yacht owners, but all remain subject to official application procedures and approval criteria.
Potential applicants have been strongly advised to verify information through official sources before taking any action. The Authority’s official website and 24-hour call center at 600522222 provide accurate information about current Golden Visa categories, requirements, and application procedures. The confusion highlights the importance of consulting official government sources rather than relying on third-party consultancy claims or media reports that may misrepresent actual policies and procedures.
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Buoyant India unperturbed by prospect of spicy Lord’s pitch
Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
India expect England to roll out a challenging track for the third test at Lord’s but are confident their in-form batters can master it, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said on Tuesday.
India levelled the five-test series 1-1 with a thumping 336-run victory at Edgbaston where they racked up 587 in the first innings and declared their second on 427-6.
England are pondering overhauling their tired bowling attack and a fit-again Jofra Archer is in line to play his first test in more than four years at Lord’s.
“It will be a challenge if Jofra comes in,” Kotak told reporters ahead of the third test beginning on Thursday.
“England might want to make a couple of bowling challenges. The wicket, it seems, will also be a bit more challenging.
“After the last two games, if England decides to roll out a more challenging wicket, it’s fair enough.”
The green tinge of the pitch tells Kotak that runs would not exactly flow at Lord’s.
“This wicket looks greener than the last two matches. But one cannot be too sure before the final trimming tomorrow,” he said.
“Normally the first and second innings scores at Lord’s tend to be lower. So bowlers can expect a bit more help here.”
Shubman Gill has been in sensational form in his first series as India’s test captain smashing a hundred in the opening test in Leeds and following it with scores of 269 and 161 at Edgbaston.
Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal have also struck hundreds, which Kotak believed meant they would not be found wanting at Lord’s regardless of conditions.
“For the batters, it will be a matter of just trying to spend as much time as possible on this wicket and adjust to it,” he said.
“Our batters are so skilful that they are scoring at four an over even when they are not looking to score quickly.
“But the mindset here would be, we won’t look for boundaries. If you don’t play silly shots, you’ll play long innings on these wickets.”
(Reuters)
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MIL-OSI Australia: Deductible gift recipient reforms
Source: New places to play in Gungahlin
Why DGR reforms were made
The government has announced several reforms to the administration and oversight of organisations with deductible gift recipient (DGR) status.
These changes are designed to:
- strengthen governance arrangements
- reduce administrative complexity
- ensure continued trust and confidence in the not-for-profit sector.
DGRs to be registered as a charity
On 13 September 2021, the Treasury Laws Amendment (2021 Measures No. 2) Act 2021External Link became law.
As a precondition for DGR endorsement, this Act amends the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 to require a fund, authority or institution to be either:
- a registered charity
- an Australian Government agency
- operated by a registered charity or an Australian Government agency.
Before the amendments, a majority of DGR categories required non-government organisations to be registered as charities. The amendments extended this requirement to 11 general DGR categories. This measure doesn’t apply to ancillary funds or DGRs specifically listed in the tax law.
For more information, see:
DGR registers reform
On 28 June 2023, the Treasury Laws Amendment (Refining and Improving our Tax System) Act 2023 became law.
This Act amends the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 to transfer administrative responsibility of 4 unique DGR categories from other government departments to the ATO.
These changes started on 1 January 2024 and repealed provisions that required each of the 4 departments to maintain a separate register.
From 1 January 2024, transitional provisions apply to those organisations that were already DGR endorsed in one of the 4 unique DGR categories before 1 January 2024. These organisations remain endorsed if they continue to meet eligibility criteria.
Transitional provisions also apply to those organisations that had an in-progress application with one of the 4 government departments before 1 January 2024. These applications were transferred to us from 1 January 2024.
For more information, see DGR registers reform transitional provisions.
Before the transition
Before 1 January 2024, the 4 unique DGR categories were administered by other Australian Government departments as follows:
- Register of Cultural Organisations – Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts
- Register of Environmental Organisations – Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
- Register of Harm Prevention Charities – Department of Social Services
- Overseas Aid Gift Deductibility Scheme – Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
After the transition
From 1 January 2024, the ATO started assessing eligibility for DGR endorsement for:
These changes mean we now administer all 52 DGR categories set out in Division 30 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997.
For more information on the transition, see:
On 28 June 2024, the Treasury Laws Amendment (Support for Small Business and Charities and Other Measures) Act 2024External Link became law.
This Act amends the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 and Taxation Administration Act 1953 to establish:
- 2 new general DGR categories for
- community charity trust
- community charity corporations
- a requirement for a Treasury Minister to formulate guidelines for the 2 new DGR categories.
These amendments started on 29 June 2024.
To be eligible for DGR endorsement as a community charity trust or corporation, a trust or company must, among other requirements, be specified in a ministerial declaration in force. Entities seeking to be specified in a ministerial declaration should contact Treasury at dgr@treasury.gov.au.
Guidelines
Treasury opened public consultation on the exposure draft guidelines and accompanying explanatory material on 5 November 2024. The consultation period ended on 3 December 2024. You can refer to the outcomes of Treasury’s consultation at Building Community – ministerial guidelines for community foundationsExternal Link.
The finalised guidelines were registered on 24 February 2025 and are accessible on the Federal Register of Legislation websiteExternal Link.
Background
Originally announced by the previous government in the Budget March 2022–23 – Budget Paper No. 2: Budget MeasuresExternal Link, it was proposed that the tax law be amended to specifically list up to 28 community foundations affiliated with the peak body Community Foundations Australia. The specific listing would be time-limited for 5 years, from 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2027.
A refined model was proposed in the Budget 2023–24– Budget Paper No. 2: Budget MeasuresExternal Link which includes:
- the removal of the 5-year time limit requirement
- DGR endorsement by the Commissioner of Taxation under new ministerial guidelines.
More information
For more information, see:
Subscribe to our newsletter for updates
Subscribe to our monthly not-for-profit newsletter to keep up-to-date with:
- our new and refreshed guidance
- the progress of the proposed amendments
- how to meet your not-for-profit’s tax and super obligations.
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MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ11: Care workers in residential care homes
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is a question by the Hon Chau Siu-chung and a written reply by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, in the Legislative Council today (July 9):
Question:
Regarding the care workers in various types of residential care homes (RCHs), will the Government inform this Council:(1) of the number of (i) local care workers and (ii) imported care workers in all RCHs in Hong Kong in the past three years (up to the end of that year) and at present, together with a breakdown by type of RCHs (i.e. residential care homes for the elderly, residential care homes for persons with disabilities and nursing homes) and mode of operation of RCHs (i.e. (a) subvented RCHs, (b) contract RCHs, (c) non-profit-making self-financing RCHs and (d) private RCHs) (if applicable) (set out in Table 1);(2) in respect of the first to the sixth rounds of applications under the Special Scheme to Import Care Workers for Residential Care Homes (the Special Scheme), of (i) the number of applications, (ii) the number of imported care workers applied for (set out by new quotas and quotas for contract renewal), (iii) the number of approved applications, and (iv) the number of imported care workers approved (set out by new quotas and quotas for contract renewal), together with a breakdown by three types of RCHs and four types of mode of operation of RCHs (if applicable) as mentioned in (1) (set out in Table 2); and the main reasons for not approving the applications;
Table 2 Type of RCHs: (3) since the implementation of the Special Scheme, of the following information on the spot checks conducted by the authorities on applicant RCHs in accordance with the mechanism of spot checks of local recruitment records during the processing of each round of application: (i) the staffing establishment and strength of personnel conducting the spot checks, (ii) the number of RCHs which had been requested by the Social Welfare Department in its letters to submit detailed local recruitment records, and (iii) their percentage in the total number of applicant RCHs; whether the authorities had found malpractices such as RCHs being suspected of having provided false information or withheld any information during such spot checks; if so, of the details, including the number and nature of the cases, and whether the authorities had imposed administrative sanctions on or instituted prosecutions against the RCHs concerned, together with a breakdown by type of RCHs and their mode of operation;
(4) given that according to the requirements of the Special Scheme, RCHs must not displace their existing local care workers with imported care workers and they must comply with the specified ratio of local employees to imported care workers, of the number of RCHs alleged or substantiated to have breached the aforesaid requirements since the implementation of the Special Scheme, as well as the details of the relevant follow-up actions (including the number of cases in which written warnings were issued to and administrative sanctions were imposed on non-compliant RCHs), together with a breakdown by type of RCHs and their mode of operation;
President,To address the manpower shortage and new manpower demand in residential care homes (RCHs), and to assist the RCH sector in enhancing their service quality, the Government, on the premise of safeguarding the employment priority for local workers, launched the Special Scheme to Import Care Workers for RCHs (the Special Scheme) in June 2023 to allow residential care homes for the elderly (RCHEs) and residential care homes for persons with disabilities (RCHDs) to import care workers on an appropriate scale. The Special Scheme set 7 000 importation quotas when launched, including around 4 000 care workers previously imported through the Supplementary Labour Scheme (SLS), and the relevant quotas were nearly exhausted by the first half of 2024. The Government, having reviewed the demand for and supply of care workers in the sector, announced in July of the same year that the quota ceiling would be adjusted to 15 000 for RCHs to apply for by batches in the following three years.
Our reply to the Member’s questions, with consolidated information and data of the Social Welfare Department (SWD), Labour Department (LD) and Census and Statistics Department (C&SD), is as follows:
(1) to (3) The number of local and imported care workers employed by the RCHEs and the RCHDs in Hong Kong in the past three years are set out at Annex 1. The details of the first five rounds of applications and approval results under the Special Scheme are set out at Annex 2, with about 400 rejected cases mainly because the quotas available for that round of applications were exhausted, or the applications did not comply with the requirements of the Special Scheme. The sixth round of applications ended on May 6, 2025, and the SWD is processing the applications for around 500 new quotas.
There are five staff members in the SWD designated to implement the Special Scheme, including the Social Work Officer grade, the Executive Officer grade and the Clerical grade. To safeguard job opportunities of local care workers, the SWD will conduct random checks on the “Confirmation of Local Recruitment” submitted by the RCHs that apply for joining the Special Scheme, with a view to ensuring that they have conducted local recruitment through channel(s) specified by the Director of Social Welfare but have been unsuccessful in filling the vacancies. Up to March 2025, the SWD has conducted random checks on about 300 local recruitment records of the RCHs, accounting for more than 10 per cent of the total number of applications, and found no case of RCH’s intentionally or knowingly submitting inaccurate information. Nor has any RCH been imposed administrative sanction during that period of time.
(4) to (6) The LD’s Labour Inspectors (LIs) inspect the workplaces of imported workers and the accommodation provided by employers in Hong Kong for imported workers. The establishment and strength of the LIs responsible for the above work is 37. In the past two years, LIs have carried out a total of 4 407 inspections relating to imported care workers (including cases under the SLS/Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme (ESLS) and the Special Scheme), including 2 298 workplace inspections and 2 109 accommodation inspections. Should suspected deprivation of imported workers’ rights and benefits be detected during inspection, the LD will promptly conduct follow-up investigation. Complaints received during the inspections are counted towards the overall number of complaint cases.
Since the launch of the Special Scheme in June 2023 and up to May 2025, the LD and the SWD have received a total of 47 complaints against the RCHs suspected to have breached the law or the requirements of the Special Scheme. The complaints mainly involved wages (including wage rebates and underpayment of wages) and work arrangements. Among them, there were eight complaints received about the displacement of serving local care workers by imported care workers, of which the Government has completed investigation of seven cases and no irregularities were found. The remaining one case is still under investigation. During the same period, the LD successfully prosecuted an employer that had engaged imported care workers under the Special Scheme. The employer violated the Employees’ Compensation Ordinance by failing to take out employees’ compensation insurance policies and was fined $2,500 by the court. The SWD is examining the case concerned and will consider imposing administrative sanctions as appropriate.
Since the launch of the Special Scheme, the number of complaint, prosecution and conviction cases per year are tabulated as follows:
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MIL-OSI: LQWD Announces Upsized Financing with Amended Terms of Up to C$12.3 Million
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES
VANCOUVER, British Columbia , July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Canada’s Bitcoin Lightning Strategy, LQWD Technologies Corp. (TSXV: LQWD) (OTCQX: LQWDF) (“LQWD” or the “Company”) announces that in response to increased demand from strategic investors and existing shareholders, it has increased the size of its previously announced brokered (the “Brokered Offering”) and non-brokered (the “Non-Brokered Offering” and together, the “Offering”) private placement to up to C$12.3 million (or US $9 million), with the Offering to be priced at C$4.10 (or US$3.00) per common share (the “Common Shares”).
Maxim Group LLC is acting as sole agent and book runner in connection with the Brokered Offering.
Subject to compliance with applicable regulatory requirements and in accordance with National Instrument 45-106 – Prospectus Exemptions (“NI 45-106”), the Offering is being made pursuant to Part 5A of NI 45-106, as amended by Coordinated Blanket Order 45-935 – Exemptions from Certain Conditions of the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption (the “Listed Issuer Financing Exemption”), to purchasers resident in Canada (other than the province of Québec) in connection with the Non-Brokered Offering.
The Company has filed an amended and restated offering document relating to the Offering (the “Offering Document”) that can be accessed under the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company’s website at https://lqwdtech.com/. Prospective investors should read the Offering Document before making an investment decision.
The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Offering for the acquisition of Bitcoin for use as an operating asset in the Company’s scalable Lightning Network services business, and general corporate purposes.
The Brokered Offering is expected to close on or about July 10, 2025, or such other date or dates as the Company and Maxim may agree and the Non-Brokered Offering is expected to close on or about July 11, 2025. Completion of the Offering is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary approvals, including the conditional approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (“TSXV”).
The Company expects certain directors and officers of the Company, being related parties as defined in Multilateral Instrument 61-101 – Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (“MI 61-101”), to participate in the Offering. Any such resulting related party transaction will be exempt from the formal valuation requirement and shareholder approval requirement of MI 61-101 as the fair market value of any Common Shares issued to such persons will not exceed 25% of the Company’s market capitalization.
In connection with the Offering, the Common Shares will be offered to persons in the United States pursuant to exemptions from the registration requirements under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”) and all applicable U.S. state securities laws, as well as outside Canada and the United States on a basis which does not require the qualification or registration of any of the Company’s securities or require the Company to be subject to any ongoing disclosure requirements under any domestic securities laws.
The Common Shares to be offered pursuant to the Offering have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, United States persons absent registration or any applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.
About LQWD
LQWD Technologies Corp. is advancing Bitcoin adoption through the Lightning Network, a second-layer solution that enables instant, low-cost transactions at scale. As one of the first public companies dedicated to Lightning infrastructure, LQWD operates a network of enterprise-grade nodes designed to earn transaction fees and support network liquidity.
With a strategic Bitcoin treasury and infrastructure positioned for scalability, LQWD offers investors unique exposure to both the long-term appreciation of Bitcoin and the growing use of Lightning as a global payments solution.
For further information:
Ashley Garnot, President/Director
Phone: 1.604.669.0912
Email: ashley@lqwdtech.com
Website: www.lqwdtech.com
X: @LQWDTechForward-Looking Statements
This news release contains certain “forward-looking statements”. All statements, other than statements of historical fact that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the current expectations and beliefs of the Company based on information currently available to the Company. Such forward-looking statements include statements relating to the Offering, including the completion and anticipated timing for completion of the Offering, the potential size of the Offering, the Company’s intended use of the net proceeds of the Offering, the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals, including the approvals of the TSXV, and the Company’s development and growth plans. Any such forward-looking information may be identified by words such as “anticipate”, “proposed”, “estimates”, “would”, “expects”, “intends”, “plans”, “may”, “will”, and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are subject to significant risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on the Company.
Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
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MIL-OSI: LQWD Announces Upsized Financing with Amended Terms of Up to C$12.3 Million
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES
VANCOUVER, British Columbia , July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Canada’s Bitcoin Lightning Strategy, LQWD Technologies Corp. (TSXV: LQWD) (OTCQX: LQWDF) (“LQWD” or the “Company”) announces that in response to increased demand from strategic investors and existing shareholders, it has increased the size of its previously announced brokered (the “Brokered Offering”) and non-brokered (the “Non-Brokered Offering” and together, the “Offering”) private placement to up to C$12.3 million (or US $9 million), with the Offering to be priced at C$4.10 (or US$3.00) per common share (the “Common Shares”).
Maxim Group LLC is acting as sole agent and book runner in connection with the Brokered Offering.
Subject to compliance with applicable regulatory requirements and in accordance with National Instrument 45-106 – Prospectus Exemptions (“NI 45-106”), the Offering is being made pursuant to Part 5A of NI 45-106, as amended by Coordinated Blanket Order 45-935 – Exemptions from Certain Conditions of the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption (the “Listed Issuer Financing Exemption”), to purchasers resident in Canada (other than the province of Québec) in connection with the Non-Brokered Offering.
The Company has filed an amended and restated offering document relating to the Offering (the “Offering Document”) that can be accessed under the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company’s website at https://lqwdtech.com/. Prospective investors should read the Offering Document before making an investment decision.
The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Offering for the acquisition of Bitcoin for use as an operating asset in the Company’s scalable Lightning Network services business, and general corporate purposes.
The Brokered Offering is expected to close on or about July 10, 2025, or such other date or dates as the Company and Maxim may agree and the Non-Brokered Offering is expected to close on or about July 11, 2025. Completion of the Offering is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary approvals, including the conditional approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (“TSXV”).
The Company expects certain directors and officers of the Company, being related parties as defined in Multilateral Instrument 61-101 – Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (“MI 61-101”), to participate in the Offering. Any such resulting related party transaction will be exempt from the formal valuation requirement and shareholder approval requirement of MI 61-101 as the fair market value of any Common Shares issued to such persons will not exceed 25% of the Company’s market capitalization.
In connection with the Offering, the Common Shares will be offered to persons in the United States pursuant to exemptions from the registration requirements under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”) and all applicable U.S. state securities laws, as well as outside Canada and the United States on a basis which does not require the qualification or registration of any of the Company’s securities or require the Company to be subject to any ongoing disclosure requirements under any domestic securities laws.
The Common Shares to be offered pursuant to the Offering have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, United States persons absent registration or any applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.
About LQWD
LQWD Technologies Corp. is advancing Bitcoin adoption through the Lightning Network, a second-layer solution that enables instant, low-cost transactions at scale. As one of the first public companies dedicated to Lightning infrastructure, LQWD operates a network of enterprise-grade nodes designed to earn transaction fees and support network liquidity.
With a strategic Bitcoin treasury and infrastructure positioned for scalability, LQWD offers investors unique exposure to both the long-term appreciation of Bitcoin and the growing use of Lightning as a global payments solution.
For further information:
Ashley Garnot, President/Director
Phone: 1.604.669.0912
Email: ashley@lqwdtech.com
Website: www.lqwdtech.com
X: @LQWDTechForward-Looking Statements
This news release contains certain “forward-looking statements”. All statements, other than statements of historical fact that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the current expectations and beliefs of the Company based on information currently available to the Company. Such forward-looking statements include statements relating to the Offering, including the completion and anticipated timing for completion of the Offering, the potential size of the Offering, the Company’s intended use of the net proceeds of the Offering, the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals, including the approvals of the TSXV, and the Company’s development and growth plans. Any such forward-looking information may be identified by words such as “anticipate”, “proposed”, “estimates”, “would”, “expects”, “intends”, “plans”, “may”, “will”, and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are subject to significant risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on the Company.
Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.