Category: Economy

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: InvestHK signs MOU with Xi’an Hi-Tech Zone to foster Shaanxi-Hong Kong partnership in empowering enterprises’ global expansion (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) today (July 8) cohosted the “Shaanxi-Hong Kong Collaboration: Leveraging Hong Kong Strengths to Support Shaanxi Tech Companies in Going Global” seminar in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, in collaboration with the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the Shaanxi Provincial People’s Government and the Shaanxi Association for Science and Technology. The event was also co-organised by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Chengdu (CDETO), the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government’s Shaanxi Liaison Unit, Shaanxi Province Xixian New Area Development and Construction Management Committee, and the Xi’an High-Tech Industries Development Zone Management Committee.

The Director of the CDETO, Mr Enoch Yuen; the Director-General of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office, Shaanxi Provincial Government, Ms Yao Hongjuan; and Vice President of the Shaanxi Association for Science and Technology Mr Lv Jianjun delivered welcome remarks to guests and the media. Mr Yuen said, “The National 14th Five-Year Plan explicitly designates Hong Kong as an international innovation and technology hub, while Shaanxi serves as a key national base for technology and industry, with strong capabilities in energy and chemical engineering, equipment manufacturing, and aerospace, among others. Both Hong Kong and Shaanxi place great importance on the development of the innovation and technology industry, and frequent high-level exchanges between the two places have continued to deepen in recent years. We look forward to deeper collaboration, leveraging Hong Kong’s strengths in taxation, finance, and global connectivity, while combining them with Shaanxi’s strong industrial foundation and innovative vitality, to achieve a mutually beneficial partnership.”

Ms Yao stated that efforts will be made to actively promote and deepen economic, trade, and investment co-operation between Shaanxi and Hong Kong, particularly in the fields of innovation and technology, as well as new quality productive forces. These efforts aim to help enterprises in both regions seize development opportunities and achieve complementary advantages. Mr Lv also delivered remarks at the event.

One of the key highlights of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between InvestHK and the Xi’an High-Tech Industries Development Zone Management Committee, marking a solid step forward for Shaanxi and Hong Kong in promoting the international development of enterprises in the central and western regions.

Xi’an High-tech Zone is one of the first national high-tech zones approved by the State Council. In 2024, Xi’an High-tech Zone ranked fifth in the country and first in the central and western regions in the comprehensive evaluation of national high-tech zones. The zone focuses on developing innovative industries such as optoelectronic information, smart manufacturing, biomedicine, automobiles, new materials and energy. It has successfully built two “hundred-billion-level industrial clusters” in the automobile industry and electronic information. At present, the zone has become the world’s largest production base for flash memory chips and new energy vehicles.

Under the MOU, the Xi’an High-Tech Industries Development Zone Management Committee will encourage enterprises in the zone to utilise Hong Kong as a base for expanding overseas business. InvestHK will provide enterprises with information on the business environment and policies in Hong Kong, as well as support services for companies investing and operating in Hong Kong. The signing of this MOU establishes a structured collaboration framework, combining Hong Kong’s unique strengths as an international financial centre and Xi’an High-Tech Zone’s innovation capabilities to empower enterprises in accessing global resources efficiently and seizing early opportunities in international markets.

The Head of the Go Global Unit/Business and Talent Attraction/Investment Promotion of Western China of InvestHK, Mr Jason Gan, and the Director of the Science and Technology Innovation Bureau of the Xi’an High-Tech Industries Development Zone, Mr Gao Yuntian, signed the memorandum of co-operation on behalf of their respective sides. Mr Gan said after the signing, “There are tremendous opportunities for co-operation between Shaanxi and Hong Kong in developing new quality productive forces and contributing to China’s high-quality development. As a vital bridge between the Mainland and international markets, Hong Kong has long been committed to providing comprehensive support for Mainland innovation-driven enterprises. We hope to further leverage the complementary advantages of the two places to assist high-quality enterprises in the zone to go global via Hong Kong, and work together to explore new innovative co-operation.”

The Head of Innovation & Technology of InvestHK, Mr Andy Wong, delivered a keynote speech and highlighted Hong Kong’s competitive edge in the I&T sector. “We possess a number of competitive advantages in developing innovation and technology, including world-class academic research and talent, cutting-edge R&D infrastructure, robust intellectual property protection, and the strong support of the HKSAR Government. In 2024, InvestHK supported 120 innovation and technology companies to set up or expand in Hong Kong, making it the top sector among those we assisted. This reflects the international community’s confidence in and recognition of Hong Kong’s I&T development, and further affirms the city’s strategic role as a two-way platform between the Mainland and global markets. Hong Kong’s innovation and technology sector has recently made remarkable progress in several areas. For example, the first batch of regulatory sandbox pilot projects for the low-altitude economy has been launched, serving as a new engine for Hong Kong’s future development. In addition, the city’s new drug approval mechanism has been updated to accelerate the market entry of new pharmaceuticals. I sincerely hope that I&T enterprises in Shaanxi will seize the diverse opportunities offered by Hong Kong to expand into international markets,” he said.

Senior Manager of the Leasing and Operations Department of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park Limited Mr Tandy Tan and Associate Director of the Research and Innovation Office of Hong Kong Polytechnic University Mr Victor Zhao also shared the opportunities of the Hong Kong Innovation and Technology Center and highlighted Hong Kong’s R&D capabilities in empowering new quality productive forces raised from Hong Kong universities. Deputy Director of the Science, Technology Innovation and New Economy Bureau, Shaanxi Province Xixian New Area Ms Han Ping also shared the latest developments on Shaanxi’s I&T industry construction centre.

This event featured a panel discussion with industry leaders from professional services in Hong Kong, especially in financial professional services. Guest speakers from Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited, HSBC and Deloitte Tax shared insights on how Hong Kong’s financial and professional services can accelerate Mainland firms’ global expansion.

The seminar included a dedicated exchange session to provide on-site consulting services for corporate representatives interested in expanding to Hong Kong. The event attracted 190 representatives from Shaanxi enterprises, institutions and local media.



MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by CE at South China Morning Post China Conference 2025 (English only) (with photos/video)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the South China Morning Post China Conference 2025 today (July 8):

Ms Catherine So (Chief Executive Officer of the South China Morning Post), Ms Tammy Tam (Editor-in-Chief of the South China Morning Post), Mr Steve Finch (President and Chief Executive Officer of Manulife Asia), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

Good morning. It’s a pleasure to join you here, once again, at the South China Morning Post’s annual China Conference – the 11th edition.

More than 700 of you are here for this year’s gathering. Some 300s are joining us, virtually, at this forum for business, trade, finance, investment and technology. All of you keen on getting the latest intelligence and insights, developments and business opportunities – in Hong Kong, throughout China and beyond.

The theme of this China Conference is “Where Capital Meets Innovation” – an apt description of the strengths of China, our country, and how Hong Kong contributes to its rise. That provides the world with much-needed certainty, especially in this difficult time.

This year’s international trade uncertainties, and chaos, may well continue amidst the rise of protectionism and unilateralism. The global economy is grappling with profound instability, escalating geopolitical risks and the wholesale reshaping of long-existing trading systems.

In spite of a damaged global trade order, the expanding trade and capital flows of China, our country, help buoy the economy of the region and the world.

The Mainland economy has sound fundamentals, a vast domestic market and the robust policies in place to withstand external challenges. In the first quarter of this year, the country’s GDP (Gross Domestic Product) grew by 5.4 per cent, and key economic indicators have kept improving since the beginning of the second quarter – simply said, China, our country, is well on its way to achieving the official growth target of around 5 per cent for 2025.

As for Hong Kong, our economy expanded solidly by 3.1 per cent in the first quarter of 2025, supported by visible increases in exports and the resumption of moderate growth in overall investment expenditure. We forecast real GDP growth of 2 per cent to 3 per cent in this year.

Last week, we celebrated the 28th anniversary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s establishment. That happy occasion was a welcome opportunity to thank our country for championing Hong Kong through the “one country, two systems” principle, as well as the national strategies and made-for-Hong Kong initiatives it supports us with.

Last month, the World Competitiveness Yearbook ranked Hong Kong third in the world in global competitiveness, up two places from the previous year, and up four places from 2023.

It marks Hong Kong’s return to the global top three for the first time since 2019, reflecting our commitment to change in face of today’s rising challenges.

There’s a lot more to be grateful for. In April and May, Hong Kong’s merchandise exports showed double-digit, year-on-year growth, while visitor arrivals also brought double-digit, year-on-year increases in the second quarter.

And Hong Kong, in the first half of this year, has been the world’s largest IPO (initial public offering) fundraising market, raising over US$13 billion. That’s up a whopping 22 per cent, compared with the full-year figure last year.

It speaks of Hong Kong’s long-standing appeal as a safe haven for Chinese and international capital and a bridge for global investors.

Hong Kong is, after all, the most internationalised city in the country. We offer the world a market-friendly business environment underpinned by the rule of law. We are the only common law jurisdiction in our country, with a legal system and regulatory regime similar to most global financial hubs. And we present business and investment advantages unmatched by any other city in the world.

Last year, the total number of local registered companies reached its record high, surpassing 1.46 million. And the total number of non-local companies registered here also reached a record high, and was over 15 000. Both figures continue to show encouraging growth this year.

Since January 2023, Invest Hong Kong, our dedicated investment promotion agency, has assisted more than 1 300 Mainland and overseas companies in setting up or expanding their business in Hong Kong. These companies bring in foreign direct investment of over US$21 billion to our economy, creating over 19 000 jobs.

When I assumed office as Chief Executive three years ago, I established the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises. My aim is to offer, through this Office, one-stop facilitation services and tailor-made incentives to attract strategic enterprises to our city and foster innovation and economic growth.

The Office has brought in 84 strategic companies, from such high-tech industries as advanced manufacturing and new energy technology, AI and data science, fintech and life and health technology. The strategic companies will invest about US$6.4 billion in the next few years, creating over 20 000 jobs.

We also launched a new scheme in May this year to create a company re-domiciliation regime to attract companies to Hong Kong. It provides a convenient, safe and secure pathway for companies to re-domicile to Hong Kong. Different companies have already expressed their interest to the regime and two international insurance giants – as Mr Finch is surely aware – have announced they will officially re-domicile to Hong Kong. Good business always makes right decisions.

These companies all gave their strong vote of confidence in the development of Hong Kong and the country, and will help attract a wealth of partners and related companies to this part of the globe.

Another strong advantage Hong Kong offers to overseas companies here, old or new, is our easy access to the Mainland market. We are certainly a front runner in this regard.

That’s in no small part thanks to the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement, or CEPA, our de facto free trade agreement with the Mainland that provides preferential treatment to Hong Kong companies, facilitating smoother access to the Mainland’s vast market.

A new amendment agreement under the CEPA Agreement on Trade in Services entered into force this March. It includes the removal of the qualifying period requirement on Hong Kong service suppliers in most sectors, meaning our many new companies can also benefit from the arrangement’s facilitation measures in accessing the Mainland market.

Together with new initiatives that allow Hong Kong-invested enterprises to adopt Hong Kong law and choose Hong Kong as the seat for arbitration in their operation in a range of Mainland cities, CEPA provides a wide range of innovative enhancements that help a world of investors better capitalise on China’s growth opportunities, with the help of Hong Kong’s world-class professional services.

Then there’s technological innovation, including artificial intelligence. AI advancements are transforming production, business and consumption patterns. They are redefining the core competitiveness of economies.

These trends create new opportunities for Hong Kong, particularly in our deepening integration with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, a cluster city development that brings together Hong Kong, Macao, and nine southern cities on the Mainland.

With a population exceeding 87 million and a GDP of more than US$2 trillion last year, similar to the size of the 10th largest economy in the world, the Greater Bay Area is among the most open and economically vibrant regions in the country.

The Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou science and technology cluster, which includes three of the Greater Bay Area’s core cities, has been ranked second, globally, for five consecutive years in the Global Innovation Index, published by the World Intellectual Property Organization.

Drawing together Hong Kong’s research capabilities and business competitiveness, as well as the Mainland’s innovation and advanced manufacturing prowess, the Greater Bay Area endeavours to become a world-leading I&T (innovation and technology) hub.

One spectacular example is the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, an area that straddles our boundary with Shenzhen. It will develop into a cutting-edge advanced technology centre that converges the strengths of Hong Kong and Shenzhen. Last November, the HKSAR (Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Government published the Development Outline for the Hong Kong Park in the co-operation zone.

The Park’s first three buildings have been completed, and the Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute opened last November at Hong Kong Park.

That’s just the beginning. Artificial intelligence, new energy vehicles, the low-altitude economy, fintech, and more, are thriving in the Greater Bay Area. And as the Park enters into the operational phase this year, more of these companies will be joining us.

Beyond I&T, we have seen the successful introduction of a wide variety of policy initiatives with the Greater Bay Area, including measures for the two-way flow of talent, schemes for supporting youth innovation, entrepreneurship and employment, and policies to facilitate mutual travel.

And the promise of further co-operation between Hong Kong and the rest of the Greater Bay Area and the Mainland is boundless.

Ladies and gentlemen, when we talk of China’s might, many of us immediately look to the maiden visit to Hong Kong over the past weekend of the first domestically built aircraft carrier of China, our country, the Shandong. Although the fleet has just bid us farewell yesterday, the awe and pride it drew among the people of Hong Kong over its five-day visit will be long-lasting.

More than a display of maritime strength, the fleet showcases our country’s commitment to peacekeeping and regional stability. And much like how the Shandong docked in our safe harbour, Hong Kong is where the country anchors its trust.

In this era of fogged horizons, China does not just project power – it radiates investible stability. And Hong Kong is the “super connector” and “super value-adder” that links the world with opportunities from China’s growth and certainties. A link you can always bank on.

Amid an ever changing geopolitical landscape and constantly escalating uncertainties, Hong Kong is the place that promises security and development. This certainty of security and development is precisely what a world of investors need and thirst for.

Together, we will fully seize development opportunities, keep boosting our competitiveness, undertake reforms for progress, and foster innovation. The wisdom and wealth of experience of the people of Hong Kong will help the Pearl of the Orient shine brighter than ever on the world stage.

My thanks to the South China Morning Post for organising this essential, always eventful, annual gathering.

I wish you all a rewarding conference. And the best of business in the second half of 2025, a year that will surely be full of opportunities and rewards. Thank you.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – EoVs with Danish Presidency, ECA’s special report and workshop on EU law monitoring – Committee on Legal Affairs

Source: European Parliament

Danish Presidency_AFET 15 July 2025.jpg © Media Gallery – Danish Presidency

At the meeting of 15 July 2025, the JURI Committee will hold an exchange of views with the Minister of Justice Peter Hummelgaard and with the Minister of Industry, Business and Financial Affairs, Morten Bødskov, concerning the priorities of the Danish Presidency. JURI Members will also vote on the Chair’s mandate to table amendments to the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2026. At the same meeting ECA will present its special report 28/2024 on enforcing EU law.

The committee will also hold a workshop in cooperation with the Policy Department on the monitoring of the application of EU law, followed by an exchange of views with the rapporteur on the report of the same topic (Monitoring the application of European Union law in 2023 and 2024 – 2025/2016(INI)). JURI Members will also consider the draft reports on Copyright and generative artificial intelligence – opportunities and challenges (2025/2058(INI)) and on the 28th Regime: a new legal framework for innovative companies (2025/2079(INL)). Finally, the JURI committee will consider the amendments tabled to the dossier on the Amending Directives 2006/43/EC, 2013/34/EU, (EU) 2022/2464 and (EU) 2024/1760 as regards certain corporate sustainability reporting and due diligence requirements (2025/0045(COD)).

MIL OSI Europe News –

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Ensuring the decentralised nature of cohesion policy in the context of the next Multiannual Financial Framework – P-002720/2025
Source: European Parliament
Priority question for written answer P-002720/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Elena Kountoura (The Left)

Cohesion policy is a crucial tool for reducing disparities and for the economic, social and territorial cohesion of the EU. On 25 June 2025, 149 regions of Europe from 20 Member States sent a joint letter to the Commission President expressing concern about the direction cohesion policy seems to be taking in view of the upcoming presentation of the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF)[1]. The regions call for the continuation of the decentralised nature of cohesion policy and the place-based approach, with their direct involvement in both the design and implementation of the relevant programmes, through shared management and multi-level governance[2].

Given that the European Parliament has repeatedly stressed in its resolutions its opposition to any form of centralisation reform of cohesion programmes, calling for greater decentralisation, enhanced involvement of local and regional authorities and a more ambitious post-2027 cohesion policy with reinforced funding[3], can the Commission say:

1.How will it ensure that the core principles of cohesion policy are upheld in the upcoming MFF, including its basis in the decentralised programming model, the specific needs of local communities, the principle of shared management and multi-level governance, the place-based approach and the enhanced involvement of regional authorities?

2.Is it committed to proposing a reinforced, dedicated budget for cohesion policy, with indicative regional resource allocations based on territorial, social and economic criteria, in the next programming period?

Submitted: 3.7.2025

[1] See https://aeur.eu/f/hn5

[2] They also express their opposition to any form of centralisation reform that would strengthen centralised management at Member State level, thus jeopardising the objectives and effectiveness of cohesion policy.

[3] According to its resolution of May 2025 on the ninth report on economic and social cohesion, the European Parliament ‘is opposed to any form of centralisation reform of EU funding programmes, including those under shared management, such as cohesion policy, and advocates for greater decentralisation of decision-making to the local and regional levels.’ By the same token, it calls for ‘enhanced involvement of local and regional authorities and economic and civil society actors at every stage of EU shared management programmes.’ Similar positions have been adopted in other resolutions, such as resolutions 2024/2051(INI) and 2024/2105(INI).
Last updated: 8 July 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Financial priority for third countries, red tape for EU Member States – P-002578/2025
Source: European Parliament
Priority question for written answer P-002578/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Georg Mayer (PfE), Roman Haider (PfE)

According to media reports, in order to address concerns about the Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), the Commissioner responsible has offered financial support to non-EU countries to set up traceability systems (for example during a trip to South America in March 2024). Meanwhile, the regulation creates a huge amount of red tape in EU Member States: in Germany alone, the government has announced that 59 full-time positions are already planned at national level.

1.Which non-EU countries have used or been promised EU funding so far?

2.To what extent is the Commission also providing EU Member States with financial support to prepare for and implement the EUDR?

3.With how many countries has a formal dialogue been entered into in accordance with Article 29?

Submitted: 26.6.2025
Last updated: 8 July 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions – B10-0329/2025

Source: European Parliament

B10‑0329/2025

European Parliament resolution on tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions

(2025/2800(RSP))

The European Parliament,

– having regard to its previous resolutions on EU-China relations,

– having regard to Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 April 2024 establishing a framework for ensuring a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials and amending Regulations (EU) No 168/2013, (EU) 2018/858, (EU) 2018/1724 and (EU) 2019/1020 [1] (Critical Raw Materials Act),

– having regard to the rules of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the principles of free, fair, and rules-based trade,

– having regard to WTO dispute settlement rulings DS431, DS432 and DS433 on China’s rare earth export restrictions,

– having regard to the G7 critical minerals action plan,

– having regard to Rule 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

A. whereas on 4 April 2025, China’s Ministry of Commerce imposed export restrictions on magnets and seven rare earth elements (REEs): samarium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, lutetium, scandium and yttrium;

B. whereas China’s new export licensing process for rare earth elements results in significant delays, has negative impacts on supply chains and threatens imminent stoppages for production in certain sectors; whereas it is also forcing industry to disclose sensitive information reaching beyond standard licensing processes;

C. whereas China’s new export restrictions further undermine its reliability as a supplier for EU industry; whereas delays and difficulties in obtaining customs clearance arise even when licences are granted;

D. whereas China’s decision to start issuing export licences for rare earth elements and magnets to some European companies represents only temporary relief and falls significantly short of a systemic solution;

E. whereas these new export restrictions represent just the latest development in China’s increased use of unilateral controls on exports that are broader in scope than the multilateral export controls and do not have a clear security rationale;

F. whereas China introduced export restrictions on gallium and germanium in August 2023, and further export restrictions on graphite in December 2023;

G. whereas China has, in the past, already been found in breach of its WTO Accession Protocol commitments and Article XI(1) of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade for introducing unjustified export restrictions on REEs; whereas this demonstrates a clear pattern of action;

H. whereas China’s use of export restrictions is a clear example of its exploitation of its dominance of the global critical raw materials market and economic blackmail, resulting in supply chain disruptions;

I. whereas 100 % of the EU’s supply of heavy REEs comes from China; whereas the EU’s general dependency on critical raw materials from China remains a major threat to the EU’s economy and resilience and a cause for concern;

J. whereas the EU faces the complex challenge of securing a sustainable supply of critical raw materials while adhering to its environmental and societal commitments;

K. whereas the EU’s demand for critical raw materials is surging and is projected to rise further, due among other things to developments in the defence sector, as well as the digital and energy transitions;

L. whereas the shift in energy policy has increased demand for previously underutilised resources, including REEs, as well as ‘conventional’ commodities such as copper, nickel, cobalt and lithium; whereas, additionally, the shift has heightened the need for metals and metalloids, including gallium, germanium, selenium, indium and tellurium, which are often only obtained as by-products during the extraction of primary commodities and have low recycling rates, further complicating their supply chain and availability;

M. whereas apart from raw material extraction, China is also increasing its dominance of critical raw materials markets through refining and processing; whereas 94 % of the Australian production of lithium minerals and 99 % of the Congolese production of cobalt goes to China for refining; whereas China imports 67 % of the world’s supply of manganese ore, and exports 70 % of the world’s refined manganese;

N. whereas China’s political objective is to secure access to raw materials in other countries and strengthen its dominance in global markets; whereas China has been accused of demanding exclusive access to resources as a condition for investment through its Belt and Road Initiative, which invests heavily in resource-rich countries; whereas such conditions reinforce monopsony power and accentuate concentration, thus making critical raw materials markets less resilient;

1. Expresses serious concern about the People’s Republic of China’s unjustified use of unilateral export controls on critical raw materials, including its latest measures targeting seven rare earth materials and magnets; deplores China’s weaponisation of critical raw materials and its use of market dominance for geopolitical leverage;

2. Calls on the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to immediately remove these rare earths and related products from its control list, thereby restoring a stable, predictable and sufficient supply;

3. Condemns the PRC’s coercive economic and trade practices and calls for swift, coordinated and proportionate responses to its systematic use of trade dependencies as a tool of influence; emphasises that such practices extend beyond critical raw materials, affecting a wide range of strategic sectors;

4. Notes with concern that for a large number of raw materials, the supply risk for Europe has gone up significantly [2]; believes that an increasing supply risk over time is symptomatic of Europe’s growing reliance on raw materials from a limited number of suppliers located in countries with governance and/or trade risks, its lack of progress in research and development targeting substitute materials, and the inability of current recycling practices to meet growing demand;

5. Recognises the need to diversify supply chains for raw materials as a critical measure to enhance economic resilience, reduce strategic dependencies and ensure stable access to essential inputs in the face of geopolitical and market disruptions; calls strongly for the EU and its Member States to closely cooperate with global allies and like-minded partners in order to counteract abusive and distortive practices in the critical minerals sector; welcomes, in that respect, the G7 critical minerals action plan, announced following the 50th G7 summit that took place in June 2025;

6. Recalls that the EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act will establish a framework for ensuring a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials, for example by identifying critical and strategic raw materials, setting benchmarks for domestic production and promoting improved circularity; Calls, in this respect, for the provisions of the Act to be implemented in full;

7. Emphasises the need to step up domestic extraction of raw materials in the EU; notes that mineral extraction within the EU operates under stricter regulation than in most other countries globally; stresses that this, coupled with shorter and more secure supply lines to EU customers, offers distinct advantages, including enhanced economic resilience and a reduced carbon footprint associated with raw material sourcing;

8. Expresses concern about the negative public perception of extraction projects in Europe; stresses that this demonstrates a clear disconnect between EU policymakers and local populations, as well as other stakeholders, regarding the implementation of energy and climate policies, as the green transition and the move away from fossil fuels require increased production of many raw materials and the establishment of secure supply chains; regrets that a number of mining projects in Europe, for example for lithium, have been significantly delayed or entirely cancelled due to public opposition; notes that while all human activities, mining included, have some degree of impact on the environment, the European mining sector has made substantial progress in developing methods and implementing strategies to mitigate its environmental footprint, balancing the need for resource extraction with responsible stewardship of the natural environment;

9. Notes that the complexity of the EU’s mineral raw materials legislation is additionally exacerbated by the requirements of EU nature protection regulations, such as the Nature Restoration Regulation [3], which also limit the availability of land for mining activities, as extractive projects will likely face stricter environmental assessments, and areas designated for restoration may be off-limits to mining projects;

10. Draws attention to the fact that China not only produces the vast majority of critical raw materials, but also controls a significant portion of global processing capacity; notes, in this regard, that in order to resolve its supply problem, the EU, apart from gaining access to resources from a wider variety of countries and developing its own EU domestic resources, needs to (re-)establish processing capacity within Europe;

11. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the Council and the Commission.

MIL OSI Europe News –

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Leaked internal note regarding Israeli war crimes and violations of human rights – E-002628/2025
Source: European Parliament

Question for written answer E-002628/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Marc Botenga (The Left), Rima Hassan (The Left), Vladimir Prebilič (Verts/ALE), Mounir Satouri (Verts/ALE), Rudi Kennes (The Left), Estelle Ceulemans (S&D), Jussi Saramo (The Left), Majdouline Sbai (Verts/ALE), Manon Aubry (The Left), Chloé Ridel (S&D), Anthony Smith (The Left), Saskia Bricmont (Verts/ALE), Cecilia Strada (S&D), Ana Miranda Paz (Verts/ALE), Hanna Gedin (The Left), Jonas Sjöstedt (The Left), Mimmo Lucano (The Left), Özlem Demirel (The Left), Estrella Galán (The Left), Evin Incir (S&D), Arash Saeidi (The Left)

A leaked note from the EU Special Representative for Human Rights to Kaja Kallas, Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (VP/HR) shows that, since at least November 2024, the Commission has been aware of Israel’s war crimes and/or other violations of international law throughout Palestine, as observed by UN entities and international courts. The note also lists responsibilities under international law for non-EU states[1].

Neither the Commission nor the VP/HR has acted upon this information. Neither has proposed suspending EU support, including financial assistance, for Israel.

The note highlights breaches of human rights that warrant the immediate suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, breaches sufficiently serious to preclude the need for further study. Instead, the Commission has chosen to actively defend the agreement.
- 1.Why has the Commission kept this analysis from the public?
- 2.Why has it not acted on the information in the note?
- 3.Considering the EU’s continued material and political support for Israel and noting its legal obligations, including under the Genocide Convention, as specified by the ICJ’s 2007 ruling on the application of the Genocide Convention, what is the Commission’s assessment of the legal responsibility of the EU and its Member States under international law?
Supporter[2]

Submitted: 30.6.2025
- [1] https://euobserver.com/eu-and-the-world/ar13e20dff.
- [2] This question is supported by a Member other than the authors: Dario Tamburrano (The Left)
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – Statute and funding of European political parties and European political foundations – Committee on Constitutional Affairs

Source: European Parliament

The Committee on Constitutional Affairs will vote on the Statute and funding of European political parties and European political foundations (recast) Regulation on 16 of JULY 2025, a major step towards ensuring greater accountability in the rules governing political parties and foundations.

The new rules will increase the transparency of European political parties and foundations, will contribute to their financial viability and will limit the administrative burden, while promoting gender balance and compliance with the fundamental values of the EU. The committee will vote on the provisional agreement resulting from interinstitutional negotiations.

Legislative Observatory 2021/0375(COD)

MIL OSI Europe News –

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions – B10-0332/2025

Source: European Parliament

B10‑0332/2025

European Parliament resolution on tackling China’s critical raw materials export restrictions

(2025/2800(RSP))

The European Parliament,

– having regard to Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 of 11 April 2024 on establishing a framework for ensuring a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials (the Critical Raw Materials Act)[1],

– having regard to Regulation (EU) 2024/1735 of 13 June 2024 on establishing a framework of measures for strengthening Europe’s net-zero technology manufacturing ecosystem and amending Regulation (EU) 2018/1724 [2] ,

– having regard to the upcoming EU-China summit on 24-25 July 2025,

– having regard to Rule 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

A. whereas China dominates in rare earth refining, especially in heavy rare earth elements; whereas China accounts for roughly 70 % of global rare earth mining and over 90 % of the world’s refining capacity; whereas China holds a near monopoly over the global supply chain of several critical minerals, particularly rare earth elements (REEs) and other minerals that are vital for high-tech applications like powerful magnets;

B. whereas critical minerals and REEs are crucial for both the green and digital transitions, owing to their essential role in enabling technologies in areas including renewable energy, electric vehicles, advanced electronics and defence;

C. whereas the global demand for REEs, which are critical materials for various technologies including clean energy, is surging, with a significant increase projected for the coming years;

D. whereas on 4 April 2025, in response to US President Donald Trump’s tariff increases on Chinese products, China imposed export restrictions on 7 of the 17 REEs: samarium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, lutetium, scandium and yttrium;

E. whereas on 27 June 2025, Washington and Beijing announced a new trade framework, under which China would resume approving export licences for REEs over the following six months;

F. whereas the new rare earth restrictions are already causing export delays (of up to 45 days for processing a licence application, with additional time needed if the state council or military has to be consulted) as the Chinese Government establishes the licensing system;

1. Expresses deep concern about and strongly criticises China’s recent and unjustified export restrictions on rare earth materials and magnets, which are crucial for European industries such as automotive manufacturing, renewable energy and defence;

2. Notes with concern that the EU, which is not responsible for starting the ongoing trade dispute between the United States and China, is nonetheless bearing its economic consequences and should not become collateral damage in this conflict;

3. Recalls that conservation policies do not allow members of the World Trade Organization to adopt measures to control the international market for a natural resource, which is what the export restrictions do; expresses the view that China’s export restrictions are designed to achieve industrial policy goals rather than conservation; underlines that the export quotas do not work together with measures restricting domestic Chinese use of rare earths, as required by the second part of Article XX of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) 1994, and are therefore intended to secure preferential use of those materials for Chinese manufacturers;

4. Calls on China to lift the restrictions and urges both the Commission and the Member States to take a firm and unified stance and engage with the Chinese authorities to seek a structural solution for these unjustified restrictions, which are undermining the global green and digital transitions; calls on the Commission and the Council to address the issue with the Chinese authorities in the upcoming EU-China summit on 24-25 July 2025, with a view to restoring a level playing field as well as securing the lifting of Chinese sanctions against former MEPs and think tanks;

5. Stresses, however, that the EU must firmly reject any attempts by the Chinese authorities to use these restrictions as a tool of coercion to force concessions in ongoing disputes on other unfair practices, such as the anti-dumping duties on battery electric vehicles;

6. Is concerned that this may lead to an unfair trade-off between export restrictions and access to European technological know-how, undermining our industrial competitiveness and strategic autonomy;

7. Urges the Commission to mitigate the risks of the EU’s overdependence on China for critical REEs and regrets that, despite the good intentions and policy initiatives of the Critical Raw Materials Act, the EU’s dependence on China for critical raw materials has continued to grow or, at best, remains stubbornly high;

8. Underlines the need for a clear strategy to ensure the long-term security of supply by focusing on diversification, increased domestic production and the circular economy, with robust recycling infrastructure at its core for the recovery of critical minerals from end-of-life products;

9. Calls on the Commission to make full use of the Clean Industrial Deal to build strategic partnerships with resource-rich countries, strengthen domestic capabilities in extraction, processing and recycling, and reduce reliance on single suppliers;

10. Emphasises the need to secure access to critical raw materials; stresses that the upcoming circular economy act should improve resource efficiency, including through better waste management of products containing critical raw materials, as well as fostering the demand and availability of secondary raw materials; stresses the need to define those secondary raw materials that are strategic and that should be subject to export monitoring, such as steel and metal scrap, and to tackle any imbalance in their supply and demand, including by exploring export restrictions; insists on the effective enforcement of the Waste Shipment Regulation [3];

11. Welcomes the critical minerals action plan agreed at the G7 leaders’ summit in June 2025;

12. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the governments and parliaments of the Member States and the Government of the People’s Republic of China.

MIL OSI Europe News –

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Italy: EIB Grants €150 Million Loan to Alfasigma to Accelerate Innovation in Rare Diseases and Specialty Care
Source: European Investment Bank

Alfasigma
- The EIB financing will support Alfasigma’s R&D investments for the three-year period from 2025 to 2027.
- The funds will help develop and market new medicines in Alfasigma’s main therapeutic areas.
The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed a €150 million loan agreement with Alfasigma, a global pharmaceutical company founded in Italy, whose products are present in more than 100 markets worldwide.

The agreement, announced today by EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti and Alfasigma’s Chief Financial Officer Tatiana Simonelli, will support the development of breakthrough therapies in the areas of rare diseases and specialty care. The EIB financing aims to support Alfasigma’s R&D activities over the three-year period from 2025 to 2027, focusing on new treatments in gastroenterology and hepatology, vascular medicine, and rheumatology. It will help accelerate the translation of scientific advances into patient-centred solutions, aiming to address unmet needs and deliver high-impact health outcomes.

The operation is part of the EIB’s strategy to bolster competitiveness and innovation in the European healthcare sector and to create highly skilled jobs.

“This financing confirms the EIB’s commitment to promoting scientific innovation and supporting European biopharmaceutical research,” said EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti. “Investing in research, development and innovation is key to strengthening Europe’s industrial competitiveness and to offering new therapeutic solutions to those currently without alternatives.”

“We are grateful to the EIB for this agreement, which will help us to fast-track our ambitious growth strategy, particularly in expanding our footprint in rare diseases and specialty care innovations to better address the unmet needs of the patients and communities we serve”, said Alfasigma Chief Financial Officer Tatiana Simonelli.

Background information

The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight key priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union, and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world. The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed over 900 projects worth nearly €89 billion in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security. The EIB Group signed 99 operations totalling €10.98 billion in Italy in 2024, helping to unlock almost €37 billion of investment in the real economy. All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment. Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the funds made available by the Group unlocked over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised a further €110 billion for startups and scale-ups. Around half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average.

Alfasigma is a global pharmaceutical company founded over 75 years ago in Italy, where it is headquartered (in Bologna and Milan). The group operates in over 100 markets spanning Europe, North and South America, Asia and Africa. It has offices in many countries, including Italy, the United States, Spain, Germany, Mexico and China; production sites in Italy (Pomezia, Rome; Alanno, Pescara; Sermoneta, Latina; and Trezzano Rosa, Milan), Spain (Tortosa, Baix Ebre) and the United States (Shreveport, Louisiana); and research and development labs in Italy (Pomezia and Bergamo). Alfasigma employs approximately 4 000 people dedicated to research, development, production and distribution of medicinal products, contributing to its mission to provide better health and a better quality of life for patients, caregivers and healthcare providers. It focuses on three main therapeutic areas: gastroenterology, vascular and rheumatology. Its portfolio ranges from speciality care to rare disease medications and consumer health products, including nutraceuticals.
MIL OSI Europe News –
July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Japanese PM calls Trump’s new tariff decision regrettable

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

TOKYO, July 8 (Xinhua) — Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on Tuesday called U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to impose 25 percent tariffs on Japan “truly regrettable,” saying bilateral talks will continue to reach a mutually beneficial deal.

He said the government would continue to steadfastly defend national interests in future rounds of trade talks and pledged to do its utmost to soften the impact of upcoming tariff increases on Japan’s export-oriented economy.

“We will continue to negotiate with the United States to explore the possibility of reaching a mutually beneficial deal while protecting our national interests,” the prime minister said. He attributed the lack of progress to “the government avoiding hasty compromises, demanding and defending what is necessary.”

D. Trump said Monday that a 25 percent tariff on imported goods from Japan would be imposed starting Aug. 1. The U.S. president also warned that any tariff increases on American goods would be met with equivalent measures from his administration. –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 News –

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI: MEXC Ventures Hosts Successful “Kickstart Your Future” Event at UNSW, Marking Australian Market Entry

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

VICTORIA, Seychelles, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC Ventures successfully concluded its inaugural Australian event, “Kickstart Your Future at MEXC Ventures,” held at the University of New South Wales Roundhouse on 19 June 2025. The Web3 career-focused gathering brought together over 120 students, graduates, and industry professionals, marking a significant milestone in the global exchange’s expansion into the Australian market.

Exceptional Student Response and Engagement
The event exceeded expectations with remarkable attendance figures, drawing more participants than initially registered on the platform. More than 130 attended the event with high enthusiasm. The overwhelmingly positive response demonstrated a strong appetite among Australian students for Web3 career opportunities.

“The turnout and engagement were incredible,” noted event organizers. “Students came with genuine interest in building careers in Web3, and many stayed long after the formal presentations to continue networking and discussions.”

Industry Expertise Takes Center Stage
The event featured three prominent speakers who delivered compelling presentations on blockchain fundamentals and career pathways. John, founder of Bitcoin Sydney, presented on Bitcoin principles including decentralization and financial sovereignty. Bob, founder of ETH Sydney, explored how Ethereum powers innovation across the ecosystem. Ray, a UNSW lecturer specializing in blockchain and fintech, provided academic insights into emerging technologies and career opportunities.

The diverse panel discussions emphasized that Web3 offers career paths beyond traditional coding roles, spanning marketing, community management, governance, research, and content creation.

Community Building and Brand Presence
MEXC Ventures established a strong local presence through strategic brand activations, including custom Australian-themed merchandise featuring koala keyrings, prominent logo placement, and a dedicated photo wall. MEXC Ventures representative delivered an engaging presentation about career opportunities, emphasizing the global nature of Web3 work and the company’s commitment to empowering the next generation of blockchain talent.

Attendees praised the event’s organization, quality of food and beverages, and the caliber of panel discussions, with many expressing interest in future MEXC Ventures initiatives.

Talent Recruitment Initiative Launched
Following the event’s success, MEXC Ventures opened student volunteer and ambassador recruitment for Australia, receiving numerous applications from interested participants. The company also highlighted its IgniteX initiative, a social impact program supporting blockchain education and developer empowerment, including the recently launched partnership with Superteam for the IgniteX Solana Talent Lab.

Building Australia’s Web3 Future
The event’s success signals strong momentum for MEXC Ventures’ Australian operations, with plans to expand programming and deepen university partnerships across the region. The enthusiastic student response and high-quality industry engagement demonstrate the readiness of Australia’s academic community to embrace Web3 innovation.

“This is just the beginning,” said MEXC Ventures representatives. “We’re committed to creating more opportunities for Australian students to engage with the global Web3 ecosystem and build meaningful careers in this space.”

About MEXC Ventures
MEXC Ventures is a comprehensive fund under MEXC dedicated to driving innovation in the cryptocurrency sector through investments in L1/L2 ecosystems, strategic investments, M&A and incubation. Upholding the principle of “Empowering Growth Through Synergy,” MEXC Ventures is committed to supporting innovative ideas and active builders in crypto.

MEXC Ventures is an investor and supporter of TON and Aptos, looking forward to staying at the forefront of TON and Aptos’ innovations and actively engaging with builders to drive ecosystem growth.

For more information, visit: MEXC Ventures Website

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4f9e0774-c26c-4a61-832e-7c4fafc92cce

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9c1aca19-362f-467b-8a65-6a56f7488b39

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7ff52ac7-6d34-44ea-899d-50ccbf473036

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/736db56d-aaa3-46d6-8085-200150f0c698

The MIL Network –

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Protecting our environment, creating opportunities

Source: Government of South Africa

By Bernice Swarts

South Africa continues to face a host of interconnected socioeconomic and environmental challenges. These include the triple challenges of inequality, poverty, and unemployment, which are further compounded by climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.

These threats are not theoretical — they are realities already affecting our families and communities, especially the most vulnerable. Yet, within these challenges lie opportunities, and our department is taking bold steps to transform policy into real, life-changing action.

National Dialogue

Over the past 30 years, we have made great strides as a nation – expanding freedom, deepening democracy and building a better life for millions. Yet we also face persistent challenges: inequality, unemployment, social divisions and a growing disconnect between citizens and institution. In this spirit, President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for an inclusive National Dialogue – a people-led, society-wide process to reflect, reset and reimagine South Africa’s future. The National Dialogue is a chance for all South Africans, from all walks of life, to come together and help shape the next chapter of our democracy.

At this point I wish to also express my support for the planned National Dialogue as a forum to unite South Africans behind a shared vision and approach towards addressing structural challenges as a result of the apartheid legacy.

For the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, the National Dialogue presents an opportunity to engage meaningfully with all South Africans — particularly youth, women, and persons with disabilities — about the socioeconomic opportunities available within our sector.
We believe the outcomes of this important national engagement must translate into practical solutions that enable our people to contribute and benefit meaningfully from the work we do as both a department and a government.

One Million Trees in One Day

Under the Presidential Flagship “Ten Million Trees Programme,” our department has set out to do something remarkable – plant 1 million trees in one day under the rallying call, “My Tree, My Oxygen. Plant Yours Today,” we invite every South African — from schoolchildren to corporates — to participate.

This isn’t just a symbolic act. It’s a movement for environmental justice and climate resilience. Trees are nature’s air purifiers, carbon sinks, and shelters for biodiversity. We are in the final year of this programme, and with renewed vigour, we’re mobilising every corner of society to ensure we meet and exceed our target.

Small-Scale Fisheries – Voices from the Coastline

Our oceans offer abundant resources, but for too long, small-scale fishers have been left behind. That’s why we convened the Small-Scale Fishing Co-operatives Summit in Mthatha in May. We heard firsthand about the struggles fishers face: poor infrastructure, limited market access, and lack of support.

The summit wasn’t just a talk-shop. It was a collective turning point. We are now developing technical support packages, mentorship programmes, and policy enhancements to bring dignity and sustainability to the sector. When fishing co-ops thrive, entire coastal communities thrive.

Tackling E-Waste: A Crisis Turned Opportunity

Did you know that South Africa generates over 360,000 tons of electronic waste each year? Shockingly, only about 10% of that is properly recycled. The rest — from broken TVs to outdated cellphones — ends up in our landfills or is dumped illegally, contaminating soil and water and endangering our ecosystems.

To combat this, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has rolled out a groundbreaking e-Waste Recycling Pilot Project. Launched in Limpopo, Mpumalanga and North West, the project has already collected over 30 tons of e-waste from rural municipalities. This isn’t just about waste removal — it’s about building a circular economy, holding producers accountable through Extended Producer Responsibility regulations, and creating green jobs.

Importantly, this initiative comes as South Africa assumes the G20 Presidency, where we have identified the circular economy and waste management as priorities.

Supporting Communities Through Forestry

Transformation in the Commercial Forestry Sector is no longer aspirational — it is underway. The DFFE is transferring eight state-owned plantations to local communities through Community Forestry Agreements. Alongside this, we’re providing post-settlement support, including business development, training, and job creation.

This initiative alone is expected to generate over 7,000 work opportunities and 550 full-time jobs, especially in impoverished rural areas. It’s forestry with a human face — empowering people to become stewards of their own natural resources.

Restoring Biodiversity, One Landscape at a Time

Through the GEF7-funded Sustainable Land Management Project, we are actively reversing land degradation in Limpopo and the Northern Cape. We have trained 129 community champions, employed over 170 people, and cleared invasive species from vast grazing lands.

Furthermore, our commitment to combating Desertification, Land Degradation and Drought (DLDD) is echoed on the global stage as a priority under our G20 Presidency.

Infrastructure for Nature and People

Our work isn’t only environmental — it’s infrastructural too. The Lowveld National Botanical Garden in Nelspruit, recently restored after flood damage, now boasts a new raised bridge and viewing deck. These are not mere cosmetic upgrades; they are symbols of resilience and investments in nature-based tourism that support SMMEs and jobs.

Last year alone, the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) implemented over 50 infrastructure projects, while its Kids in Gardens programme reached more than 153,000 young people with environmental education. We are seeding not only trees, but a new generation of conservationists.

Building a Just, Green Future

Our collective mission is clear: we must transition to an environmentally sustainable, economically inclusive society. And that requires partnerships — across sectors, provinces, and people.

As we deliver on our budget priorities, let us rally behind bold, practical and transformative action — from planting a tree to recycling e-waste to supporting a community forestry project. These aren’t just departmental initiatives. They are building blocks of a just transition that leaves no one behind.

Together, let us restore our land, empower our people, and green our future.

*Bernice Swarts is the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

MIL OSI Africa –

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Grants review process to ascertain eligibility of beneficiaries

Source: Government of South Africa

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has noted commentary about the social grants review process that the agency is currently undertaking to ascertain the eligibility of identified beneficiaries suspected of having additional income that was not disclosed.

SASSA said it would like to categorically state that there has been no suspension of social grants as stated during the review process.

In a statement, SASSA explained that grants get delayed momentarily until a beneficiary has successfully completed the review process.

“This review is not a punitive measure to deliberately exclude any deserving beneficiary, but it is intended to ensure continued eligibility and prevent misuse of public funds,” it said.

SASSA CEO, Themba Matlou, has assured grant beneficiaries and the public that SASSA is undertaking the social grants review process for the better good of the government fiscus, thus ensuring that grants are paid to eligible beneficiaries and all the fraudulent elements are rooted out.

Matlou stressed that in terms of the Social Assistance legislative framework, beneficiaries are legally required to fully disclose all sources of income during their initial application, adding that they are obligated to inform SASSA of any changes to their financial circumstances after their application has been approved and failure to comply with these requirements constitutes a violation of the Social Assistance legislation and may result in corrective action.

“The review of social grants helps identify beneficiaries who may no longer qualify due to changes in financial, medical, or legal circumstances and serves as a confirmation of life or existence, ensuring that grants are not paid out to deceased individuals or those who have relocated without updating their records.

“More importantly, reviews allow SASSA to detect and prevent cases where individuals continue receiving grants despite being listed on payroll systems of other entities, public or private,” he said.

Matlou said work is underway to capacitate all SASSA local offices to ensure that they are able to handle the large volumes of people flocking into the offices for various services including those coming in for a review.

Beneficiaries who have been affected by the grants review are encouraged to visit their nearest SASSA local office and bring the following documents:

– Valid South African ID,

– Proof of income (payslips, pension slips, or affidavits if no longer employed or employment discharge confirmations),

– Bank statements for the last 3 months for all active bank accounts,

– Proof of residence (utility bill or letter from a local authority),

– Medical referral report (if applicable, for disability or care dependency grants) – to confirm disability status,

– Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable),

– Death certificate (if some death has occurred for example child, spouse etc),

– Any other supporting documents relevant to your grant type (ebirth certificates for Child Support Grants, school attendance proof for Foster Care Grants).

If a beneficiary is bedridden or unable to visit a SASSA office, a procurator may be appointed to represent you. To complete this, beneficiaries are encouraged to contact their local office for assistance in appointing a procurator.

Beneficiaries are urged to comply with the SASSA review request. Failure to respond to any official communication from the agency may result in delays in future payments, leading to a suspension or lapsing of the beneficiary’s grant and legal proceedings may be instituted.

“Whilst the review of social grants in an ongoing process, SASSA is working hard to automate the review process by introducing self-service options using online platforms to make it easier for our beneficiaries and reduce queues in our local offices,” said the agency. – SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

July 8, 2025
Haj Committee of India opens application process for Haj 2026

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

The Haj Committee of India, under the Ministry of Minority Affairs, officially opened the application process for Haj 2026 on Tuesday, offering Indian Muslims an opportunity to embark on the sacred pilgrimage to Mecca.

Applications can be submitted online through the official Haj portal at https://hajcommittee.gov.in or via the “HAJ SUVIDHA” mobile app, available on both iOS and Android platforms. The application window will remain open till July 31, 2025.

Prospective pilgrims are required to carefully read the guidelines and undertakings before applying. A machine-readable Indian International Passport, issued on or before the application deadline and valid at least until December 31, 2026, is mandatory.

The Haj Committee has urged applicants to assess their preparedness thoroughly before applying. Cancellations – unless due to death or serious medical emergencies – may incur penalties and financial loss.

For more details and step-by-step instructions, applicants are advised to visit the official website (https://hajcommittee.gov.in).

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: University awarded prestigious AHRC Doctoral Focal Awards to power creative economy in rural areas The University of Aberdeen is part of a consortium which has been awarded a major AHRC Doctoral Focal Award in the Creative Economy.

Source: University of Aberdeen

The University of Aberdeen is part of a consortium which has been awarded a major AHRC Doctoral Focal Award in the Creative Economy.
The Celtic Crescent Creative Economy Doctoral Focal Award will spearhead innovative research into the role of bilingual and rural communities in the creative economy, with a focus on regions often overlooked in national creative strategies.
This award will fund 20 PhDs and brings together a consortium of universities committed to bilingualism, led by Bangor University and including Aberystwyth University, Falmouth University, Glasgow School of Art, the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, The University of Aberdeen and the University of South Wales.
The consortium is supported by 27 industry and sectoral partners, ranging from national public bodies, theatre groups, media producers and internationally recognised craft producers like Harris Tweed. The funding will support doctoral training focused on building research capacity in strategic areas.
Professor Nick Forsyth, the University of Aberdeen’s Vice-Principal for Research said: “The University of Aberdeen is proud to work with partners on this important initiative which supports young scholars and will create inclusive, impactful research that will strengthen regional economies and enhance cultural life across the UK. This award underscores the University’s international reputation for research excellence in the arts and humanities, following our recent successful AHRC Doctoral Landscape Award, and demonstrates our commitment to supporting and preparing the next generation of scholars to ensure the vitality of these subjects.”
This initiative will strengthen collaboration between academia, industry, and communities to deliver broader societal benefits with a key focus on addressing underrepresentation and closing skills gaps in the sector.
Professor Michelle Macleod, Head of the School of Language, Literature, Music and Visual Culture and Co-Investigator and Impact and Engagement Lead on the Celtic Crescent Management Board, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to develop a cohort of new researchers in the area of the creative economy with expertise in place-based, multidisciplinary research. Our focus is on the vital role that rural, coastal and multilingual communities play in the UK’s creative industry, recognised by the government as a driver for growth, and, crucially, creating a talent pipeline that will be a driving force for industrial innovation.”
PhD students will be provided with hands-on research opportunities in collaboration with industry partners and community organisations. The focus will be on developing future-facing skills and opening up career pathways both within and beyond academia, particularly in underrepresented areas and sectors.
Recruitment for the Celtic Crescent PhDs will open next year, with students beginning in autumn 2026.
Thugadh Duaisean Dotaireachd Fòcasach cliùiteach AHRC do Oilthigh Obar Dheathain gus eaconamaidh chruthachail ann an sgìrean dùthchail a neartachadh
Tha Oilthigh Obar Dheathain na phàirt de cho-bhanntachd a fhuair Duais Dotaireachd Fòcasach mhòr bhon AHRC ann an Eaconamaidh Chruthachail.
Bidh Duais Dotaireachd Fòcasach Eaconamaidh Chruthachail Celtic Crescent a’ stiùireadh rannsachadh ùr-ghnàthach air àite choimhearsnachdan dà-chànanach is dùthchail san eaconamaidh chruthachail, le fòcas air roinnean air an dèanar dearmad gu tric ann an ro-innleachdan cruthachail nàiseanta. Bheir an duais seo maoineachadh do 20 PhD agus tha i a’ toirt còmhla com-pàirteachas de dh’oilthighean a tha dealasach a thaobh dà-chànanachais, air a stiùireadh le Oilthigh Bangor agus a’ gabhail a-steach Oilthigh Aberystwyth, Oilthigh Falmouth, Sgoil Ealain Ghlaschu, Colaiste Rìoghail Ciùil is Dràma na Cuimrigh, Oilthigh Obar Dheathain agus Oilthigh Chuimrigh a Deas. Tha 27 com-pàirtichean gnìomhachais is roinneil a’ toirt taic don cho-bhanntachd, a’ gabhail a-steach buidhnean poblach nàiseanta, buidhnean theatar, riochdairean meadhanan agus riochdairean ciùird a tha aithnichte gu h-eadar-nàiseanta leithid Clò na Hearadh.
Cuiridh am maoineachadh taic ri trèanadh dotaireil a tha ag amas air comasan rannsachaidh a thogail ann an raointean ro-innleachdail.
Thuirt an t-Àrd Ollamh Nick Forsyth, Iar-Phrionnsabal airson Rannsachadh aig Oilthigh Obar Dheathain:
“Tha Oilthigh Obar Dheathain moiteil a bhith ag obair le com-pàirtichean air a’ phròiseact chudromach seo agus tha sinn a’ coimhead air adhart ri bhith ag obair air rannsachadh buadhmhor agus in-ghabhalach a bhios a’ cumail taic ri sgoilearan ùra agus aig a’ cheart àm a bhios a’ neartachadh eaconamaidhean roinneil agus a’ leasachadh beatha chultarail na RA. Tha an duais seo a’ daingneachadh cliù eadar-nàiseanta an Oilthigh airson sàr-mhathas rannsachaidh anns na h-ealain agus na daonnachdan, às dèidh dhuinn Doctoral Landscape AHRC fhaighinn o chionn ghoirid, agus tha e a’ sealltainn ar dealas a thaobh taic a thoirt don ath ghinealach de sgoilearan a neartaicheas na cuspairean seo.”
Neartaichidh an iomairt seo co-obrachadh eadar an saoghal acadaimigeach, gnìomhachas agus coimhearsnachdan gus buannachdan sòisealta nas fharsainge a lìbhrigeadh le prìomh fhòcas air dèiligeadh ri fo-riochdachadh agus beàrnan sgilean san roinn a dhùnadh.
Thuirt an t-Àrd Ollamh Michelle NicLeòid, Ceannard Sgoil Cànain, Litreachais, Ciùil agus Cultar Lèirsinnich agus Co-Rannsaiche agus Stiùiriche Buaidh is Conaltraidh air Bòrd Riaghlaidh Celtic Crescent:
“’S e cothrom air leth a tha seo buidheann de luchd-rannsachaidh ùra a leasachadh ann an raon na h-eaconamaidh cruthachail le eòlas ann an rannsachadh ioma-chuspaireil suidhichte air àite. Tha ar fòcas air a’ phàirt chudromaich a th’ aig coimhearsnachdan dùthchail, ioma-chànanach air a’ chosta ann an gnìomhachas cruthachail na RA, aithnichte leis an riaghaltas mar chulaidh-bhrosnachaidh airson fàs eaconomach, agus ann a bhith a’ cruthachadh tàlant ùr a bhios na fheachd leasachaidh airson ùr-ghnàthachadh gnìomhachais.”
Gheibh oileanaich PhD cothroman rannsachaidh practaigich ann an co-obrachadh le com-pàirtichean gnìomhachais agus buidhnean coimhearsnachd. Bidh am fòcas air sgilean a tha freagarrach don àm ri teachd a leasachadh agus slighean dreuchdail fhosgladh an dà chuid taobh a-staigh agus taobh a-muigh saoghal nan oilthighean, gu sònraichte ann an raointean air an riochdachadh gu leòr.
Tòiseachaidh trusadh airson sgoilearachdan PhD Celtic Crescent an ath-bhliadhna, le oileanaich a’ tòiseachadh san fhoghar 2026.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Public Health and Safety in Rented Dwellings – first year of licensing scheme08 July 2025 The Government of Jersey has published the first Annual Report on Public Health and Safety in Rented Dwellings, offering a review of the licensing scheme’s first year in operation. The report evaluates… Read more
Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

08 July 2025

The Government of Jersey has published the first Annual Report on Public Health and Safety in Rented Dwellings, offering a review of the licensing scheme’s first year in operation.

The report evaluates the scheme’s introduction, implementation, and impact. It highlights the Government’s work to improving housing standards and protecting Islanders living in rented accommodation.

Key findings from the first year include:
- Over 18,000 properties licensed under the new framework.
- 203 inspections carried out, with 60% of properties found to have no recorded hazards at the time of inspection.
- In the remaining 40%, between 1 and 9 hazards were identified per property, offering a valuable evidence base to guide future enforcement and support.
- Data shows strong consistency between proactive inspections and those carried out in response to complaints, reinforcing confidence in the inspection process and risk-based approach.
The report also details common hazards, licensing conditions, enforcement measures, and provides a financial summary of the scheme’s operation.

Minister for the Environment, Deputy Steve Luce, welcomed the report’s findings: “This first year of licensing has set a strong foundation for the future. I’m pleased to see over 18,000 rented properties now licensed and a clear demonstration of landlord responsibility across the Island.

“Most rental homes are being well maintained, which speaks to the shared commitment we all have to improving housing quality. This scheme is helping us raise standards while targeting interventions where they’re needed most.”

The licensing scheme under the Public Health and Safety (Rented Dwellings) (Jersey) Law 2018 plays a vital role in safeguarding the health, safety, and wellbeing of Islanders living in rented homes.

The report shows its importance as a long-term policy tool and outlines key priorities for the year ahead.
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Labour must stop glamorising relationship with Trump

Source: Scottish Greens

08 Jul 2025 External Affairs

Starmer must stop copying Trump’s homework and stand up for real values.

More in External Affairs

Labour and Keir Starmer must stop cosying up to Donald Trump and instead stand for the values of democracy and human rights, say the Scottish Greens.

The call came from Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman, after Starmer opened up to the BBC about how he and Donald Trump bonded over “shared family values”.

In 2023 Donald Trump was found guilty of 34 felonies after he paid $130,000 in hush money to cover up an affair with an American porn star. And he has dozens of sexual assault allegations against him dating back to the 1970’s.

Maggie said:

“Under Donald Trump, America is in turmoil. His administration is sending innocent people to be tortured in foreign countries, he’s just passed a bill that will strip 17 million Americans of their healthcare, he’s begun an unprecedented transfer of wealth from the poor to his billionaire supporters, and he has openly called for the ethnic cleansing of Gaza.

“For a UK Prime Minister to sit there and talk about his shared values with this President should set off alarm bells in every institution and every voter in this country. Cosying up to a racist, misogynistic, climate-wrecking authoritarian like Donald Trump is the last thing we should be doing.

“While values may be a flexible concept to Keir Starmer – if you don’t like his values he, opportunistically, has others – it must not be for our country. If we don’t have our values we have nothing.

“Already Downing Street is copying Trump’s homework by pushing through drastic cuts to disability benefits in order to boost spending on of war and defence. Rather than working to overcome 14 years of Tory austerity and rebuild the country, Starmer is doubling down on the same disastrous policies that got us into the mess we’re in.

“And Labour continues to echo the White House by refusing to end their active participation in the ongoing genocide of Palestinians in Gaza. We see the death-toll mounting daily. We watch as innocent civilians are shot or blown up while waiting for food inside barbed wire enclosures. Keir Starmer can’t even bring himself to call out these atrocities, never mind end the UK’s training and arming of those perpetrating them.

“Are these the family values he speaks of so fondly? Is this really the path we want to follow? Starmer must end this pathetic grovelling to the US President and begin standing up for real values – democracy, human rights, and a fair economy that improves living standards for everyone.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Green plans would wipe out millions in Council Tax debt

Source: Scottish Greens

08 Jul 2025 Finance

It is time to stop the clock on cruel historical debt collection.

More in Finance

Decades-old Council Tax debts worth hundreds of millions of pounds will be written off if MSPs agree to changes proposed by Scottish Greens finance spokesperson Ross Greer.

The proposals, tabled as amendments to the Housing Bill, would end the current situation where Council Tax debts in Scotland are chased for four times as long as other forms of debt before being written off.

Data from The Telegraph published in March this year showed that almost £2 billion of Council Tax arrears have been racked up by Scottish households since the Council Tax system was introduced in 1993.

This change would reduce the time limit for Council Tax arrears, at which point the debt is written off and collection efforts are stopped. The current limit for Scottish Council Tax debt is twenty years, despite English, Welsh and Northern Irish Council Tax arrears being written off after just six years.

The twenty year clock also resets every time someone acknowledges or tries to pay off their debts, effectively meaning that debts are held and pursued permanently, even when there is no prospect of them being paid off.

Most other forms of debt in Scotland are subject to a five year cut-off for collection efforts.

If passed, this proposal would effectively cancel any Council Tax debts built up before 2020. Analysis by the Scottish Greens suggests that the move would take hundreds of millions of pounds of debt off of the shoulders of low-income and vulnerable households.

It would also tackle the problem of vulnerable people not seeking help from their local council for other issues in their lives due to fear that they will be chased for debts they cannot afford to pay off.

Anti-poverty campaigners including Aberlour say that current council and government debt collectors “trap families in a cycle of poverty, through seized benefits, missed payments, new loans and extortionate interest.”

Ross said:

“We need to break the decades-old cycle of poverty and debt. Scotland’s system for collecting Council tax debts is far harsher than those in the rest of the UK and that needs to end. My proposals would give relief to people who are often in no position to pay back these decades-old debts, letting them get their lives and finances back on track.

“At the moment, the 20-year clock resets each time someone attempts to pay off or even acknowledge their debt, meaning some councils are still chasing debts from when this system started in 1993. That’s before I was even born.

“And the fear of having bailiffs at the door means vulnerable people aren’t going to their councils for help when they really need it.

“Council tax debt is one of the biggest drivers of Scotland’s public debt crisis, locking thousands of vulnerable people into cycles of poverty which they can’t break out of.

“If we want to end poverty for good and make Scotland a better place to live, we have to end the systems that keep people stuck in cycles of unpayable debts. It is time to wipe out these decades-old Council Tax debts.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Xi stresses transforming resource-based economy, advancing Chinese modernization during Shanxi inspection tour

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

Xi stresses transforming resource-based economy, advancing Chinese modernization during Shanxi inspection tour

TAIYUAN, July 8 — President Xi Jinping has called on north China’s Shanxi Province to further promote the transformation and development of the resource-based economy and strive to write its own chapter in advancing Chinese modernization.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks during his inspection tour in Shanxi from Monday to Tuesday.

MIL OSI China News –

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Child Fund – World’s poorest hit by double whammy – trade war plus a war on aid

Source: ChildFund New Zealand

President Trump has announced his latest tariffs after a 90 day pause, confirming an increase for 14 countries, including some of the poorest.

Today’s announcement includes 40% tariff on goods from Myanmar and Laos, and a 36% tariff on goods from Thailand and Cambodia.

“We are still waiting to see if he will carry through on his threat to increase tariffs on Pacific Island countries,” says Josie Pagani, CEO of ChildFund.

In April Trump announced tariffs in the Pacific, with Fiji likely to be charged the most at 32 per cent. Nauru, one of the smallest nations in the world would be hit with a 30 per cent tariff, while Vanuatu would get a 22 per cent tariff.

The US is Fiji’s top export destination, with Fijian exports totalling $US360 million in 2023.

Kava represents 70 per cent of Vanuatu exports, and the US is one of its primary export destinations for the local drink.

“If Vanuatu gets lumped with a 22% tariff on top of cuts to US aid, while it is still struggling to recover from last year’s earthquake, it will be a real blow to its economy,” says Josie Pagani.

“Being hit with a double whammy – cuts to aid budgets and a trade war – could wreak havoc on the world’s most indebted countries.”

Low to middle-income countries’ debt levels have more than doubled since 2009 and the cost of servicing that debt has grown.

“These tariffs make it harder for countries to trade their way out of poverty. It decreases the value of their exports, therefore reducing countries’ access to foreign currencies, which they need to pay back their external debt.”

“There is some hope. Some developing countries will find new markets in Europe, Southeast Asia and the Pacific, including New Zealand and Australian markets. There are also other development banks who can lend to poor countries, for example the European Investment Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. The U.S. is not a member of either.

“But there is no doubt that today’s tariff announcement will make it hard for countries to wean themselves off aid by increasing trade. The world is set to become a more dangerous place. The last thing we need now,” says Josie Pagani.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI: PU Prime and Argentina Football Association Celebrate Official Signing Ceremony in Madrid

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

MADRID, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PU Prime and the Argentina Football Association (AFA) formally commemorated their strategic partnership during a signing ceremony at the Argentina Football Academy Vallecas in Madrid.

This significant event marked the strengthening of a long-term global collaboration between two institutions united by shared values of discipline, strategy, and precision.

The day began with a meet-and-greet between PU Prime and AFA representatives, setting the tone for a day of collaboration and celebration. At the heart of the ceremony was the official contract signing and a ceremonial shirt exchange, symbolising the enduring partnership and mutual commitment between PU Prime and AFA. This was followed by a guided tour of the Academy’s world-class facilities, home to some of Argentina’s most promising young football talents.

Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Daniel Bruce, Managing Director of PU Prime, shared:
“Today, we’re here in beautiful Madrid to celebrate a partnership that brings together two forces committed to excellence — PU Prime and the Argentine Football Association.
“The AFA is famous for building world-class talent and having a brand that is known throughout the world. This is something that PU Prime is constantly striving toward and is well on its way to achieving.
“The partnership represents a significant step forward in the growth of our business, and we are honoured to be named alongside such a prestigious organisation.
“Thank you to the AFA for being a part of this exciting new chapter. We look forward to a long and fruitful partnership, one that pushes the boundaries of what success looks like, and drives growth for both organisations.”

Mr. Leandro Petersen, Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer of AFA, expressed his support for the partnership, stating:
“Football is a global language, and today, we add a new voice to our story by welcoming PU Prime as a valued regional partner in the world of Argentine football. We are honoured to have this exciting partnership with a partner that shares our values of excellence, innovation, and commitment to performance. Together with PU Prime, we look forward to creating meaningful experiences that unite football supporters and celebrate the spirit of the beautiful game. PU Prime, we are proud to have you with us. Welcome to the AFA family.”

Wrapping up the day was a live Q&A session with Mr. Javier Saviola, the legendary former Argentine footballer. Attendees had the exclusive chance to gain firsthand insights on leadership, legacy, and the value of global partnerships from one of the sport’s most admired icons.

Mr. Javier Saviola shared his thoughts on the collaboration:
“It’s something truly special. Representing Argentina has always been a great honor, and seeing PU Prime support the AFA means a lot to all of us. This partnership reflects the spirit of our team and helps share that passion with people all around the world.”

This event signals the beginning of a long-term partnership between PU Prime and AFA, dedicated to inspiring, engaging, and creating enduring value across both fields.

To read the full article, visit our PU Prime Newsroom.

About PU Prime
Founded in 2015, PU Prime is a leading global fintech company providing innovative online trading solutions. Today, we offer regulated financial products across various asset classes, including forex, commodities, indices, and shares. Committed to providing advanced technology and educational resources, PU Prime supports traders and investors at every stage, from beginner to professional. With a presence in over 190 countries and exceeding 40 million app downloads, PU Prime is dedicated to enabling financial success and fostering a global community of empowered traders. Discover PU Prime’s latest promotions and join us for a fruitful trading journey today.

Chloe Lee

media@puprime.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/653b62e2-7c2e-41c5-a9fc-d432e066560d

The MIL Network –

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Focus Session – Advancing TARGET Services with DLT transactions in central bank money

Source: European Central Bank (video statements)

Focus Session – Advancing TARGET Services with DLT transactions in central bank money
https://www.ecb.europa.eu/press/intro/events/html/fs_20250715.en.html

10:10
Welcome address
The Eurosystem launched a strategy to settle transactions recorded on distributed ledger technology (DLT) using central bank money. The initiative follows a two-track approach – Pontes and Appia – and will be built on the exploratory work on new technologies for wholesale central bank money settlement done with market participants in 2024. Learn more about how this strategy supports the wider EU policies and contributes to a harmonised and integrated European financial ecosystem.
Dimitri Pattyn, Deputy Director General, ECB

10:20
Findings from the exploratory work
The Eurosystem tested three interoperability-type solutions in 2024 together with 64 participants which conducted 50 trials and experiments, with the aim of exploring the potential use of DLT to settle wholesale financial transactions. Learn more about the results of the exploratory work and the lessons learnt.
Holger Neuhaus, Head of Division, ECB

10:40
Short-term track: Pontes
Deep dive into one of the tracks – Pontes which will provide a short-term offering to the market – including a pilot phase. It will offer euro central bank money settlement, linking market DLT platforms and TARGET Services to settle financial transactions. Learn more about the project roadmap and how you can be involved.
George Kalogeropoulos, Deputy Head of Division, ECB

11:10
Long-term track: Appia
The ECB will provide insights on its work on the long-term integrated ecosystem using DLT, the collaboration with public and private stakeholders, and the international dimension.
Holger Neuhaus, Head of Division, ECB

11:25
Closing remark
Dimitri Pattyn, Deputy Director General, ECB

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-EPSgBv4I8

MIL OSI Video –

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI: Aurora Mobile Partners with HashNut to Advance Stablecoin Adoption for Web3 Payments and Broader Use Cases

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SHENZHEN, China, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aurora Mobile Limited (NASDAQ: JG) (“Aurora Mobile” or the “Company”), a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China, today announced a strategic partnership with HashNut, a leading crypto payment solution provider. This collaboration will drive the adoption of stablecoins for Web3 payments and digital applications, advancing the global circulation and commercialization of digital assets.

Aurora Mobile has already begun integrating HashNut’s Web3 payment system into several products targeting Southeast Asia and global markets. This move will enable annual stablecoin settlement volumes – including USDT and USDC – to reach several million US dollars. Leveraging HashNut’s technological expertise in on-chain fund management and smart contract payments, Aurora Mobile will significantly improve digital payment experiences in overseas markets, optimizing capital turnover efficiency.

Going forward, the partnership will extend beyond Aurora Mobile’s current ecosystem with both companies planning to co-develop stablecoin payment solutions designed to provide compliant, secure, and efficient digital payment and clearing infrastructure for overseas clients and Chinese companies expanding globally. These solutions will be applied to cross-border advertising, digital content distribution, in-app economies, and SaaS subscriptions, helping advance the large-scale adoption of digital assets in emerging markets.

Both companies will use Hong Kong as a strategic hub and its forward looking global digital finance and stablecoin regulatory frameworks to collaborate with licensed stablecoin projects and local financial clearing networks. Together, they will develop a more transparent, secure, and compliant system for fund flows, reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a global financial center and innovation hub for digital assets.

Mr. Weidong Luo, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Aurora Mobile, commented, “HashNut’s technical capabilities in transparent on-chain payments and smart contract custody empower us to deliver a highly competitive digital payment experience to global customers. We will work closely going forward to develop open and accessible stablecoin solutions, enabling more Chinese businesses to expand globally and helping overseas clients thrive in the digital economy.”

HashNut’s CEO and Founder, Mr. Edward Du, stated, “Aurora Mobile’s robust presence in the global developer ecosystem, big data, and enterprise service markets uniquely positions it to advance stablecoin payment adoption. This strategic partnership will enhance Aurora Mobile’s products and provide next-generation stablecoin infrastructure for clients globally.”

Aurora Mobile and HashNut are committed to expanding their partnership across more regions and markets. Together, they will drive the compliance and standardization of stablecoins and decentralized payments in Web3 applications, creating greater value for companies and users globally.

About Aurora Mobile Limited

Founded in 2011, Aurora Mobile (NASDAQ: JG) is a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China. Since its inception, Aurora Mobile has focused on providing stable and efficient messaging services to enterprises and has grown to be a leading mobile messaging service provider with its first-mover advantage. With the increasing demand for customer reach and marketing growth, Aurora Mobile has developed forward-looking solutions such as Cloud Messaging and Cloud Marketing to help enterprises achieve omnichannel customer reach and interaction, as well as artificial intelligence and big data-driven marketing technology solutions to help enterprises’ digital transformation.

For more information, please visit https://ir.jiguang.cn/.

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident” and similar statements. Among other things, the Business Outlook and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as Aurora Mobile’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Aurora Mobile may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Aurora Mobile’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Aurora Mobile’s strategies; Aurora Mobile’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Aurora Mobile’s ability to attract and retain customers; its ability to develop and effectively market data solutions, and penetrate the existing market for developer services; its ability to transition to the new advertising-driven SAAS business model; its ability to maintain or enhance its brand; the competition with current or future competitors; its ability to continue to gain access to mobile data in the future; the laws and regulations relating to data privacy and protection; general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of the press release, and Aurora Mobile undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

For more information, please contact:

Aurora Mobile Limited
E-mail: ir@jiguang.cn

Christensen

In China
Ms. Xiaoyan Su
Phone: +86-10-5900-1548
E-mail: Xiaoyan.Su@christensencomms.com

In US
Ms. Linda Bergkamp
Phone: +1-480-614-3004
Email: linda.bergkamp@christensencomms.com

The MIL Network –

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI: Aurora Mobile Partners with HashNut to Advance Stablecoin Adoption for Web3 Payments and Broader Use Cases

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SHENZHEN, China, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aurora Mobile Limited (NASDAQ: JG) (“Aurora Mobile” or the “Company”), a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China, today announced a strategic partnership with HashNut, a leading crypto payment solution provider. This collaboration will drive the adoption of stablecoins for Web3 payments and digital applications, advancing the global circulation and commercialization of digital assets.

Aurora Mobile has already begun integrating HashNut’s Web3 payment system into several products targeting Southeast Asia and global markets. This move will enable annual stablecoin settlement volumes – including USDT and USDC – to reach several million US dollars. Leveraging HashNut’s technological expertise in on-chain fund management and smart contract payments, Aurora Mobile will significantly improve digital payment experiences in overseas markets, optimizing capital turnover efficiency.

Going forward, the partnership will extend beyond Aurora Mobile’s current ecosystem with both companies planning to co-develop stablecoin payment solutions designed to provide compliant, secure, and efficient digital payment and clearing infrastructure for overseas clients and Chinese companies expanding globally. These solutions will be applied to cross-border advertising, digital content distribution, in-app economies, and SaaS subscriptions, helping advance the large-scale adoption of digital assets in emerging markets.

Both companies will use Hong Kong as a strategic hub and its forward looking global digital finance and stablecoin regulatory frameworks to collaborate with licensed stablecoin projects and local financial clearing networks. Together, they will develop a more transparent, secure, and compliant system for fund flows, reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a global financial center and innovation hub for digital assets.

Mr. Weidong Luo, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Aurora Mobile, commented, “HashNut’s technical capabilities in transparent on-chain payments and smart contract custody empower us to deliver a highly competitive digital payment experience to global customers. We will work closely going forward to develop open and accessible stablecoin solutions, enabling more Chinese businesses to expand globally and helping overseas clients thrive in the digital economy.”

HashNut’s CEO and Founder, Mr. Edward Du, stated, “Aurora Mobile’s robust presence in the global developer ecosystem, big data, and enterprise service markets uniquely positions it to advance stablecoin payment adoption. This strategic partnership will enhance Aurora Mobile’s products and provide next-generation stablecoin infrastructure for clients globally.”

Aurora Mobile and HashNut are committed to expanding their partnership across more regions and markets. Together, they will drive the compliance and standardization of stablecoins and decentralized payments in Web3 applications, creating greater value for companies and users globally.

About Aurora Mobile Limited

Founded in 2011, Aurora Mobile (NASDAQ: JG) is a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China. Since its inception, Aurora Mobile has focused on providing stable and efficient messaging services to enterprises and has grown to be a leading mobile messaging service provider with its first-mover advantage. With the increasing demand for customer reach and marketing growth, Aurora Mobile has developed forward-looking solutions such as Cloud Messaging and Cloud Marketing to help enterprises achieve omnichannel customer reach and interaction, as well as artificial intelligence and big data-driven marketing technology solutions to help enterprises’ digital transformation.

For more information, please visit https://ir.jiguang.cn/.

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident” and similar statements. Among other things, the Business Outlook and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as Aurora Mobile’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Aurora Mobile may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Aurora Mobile’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Aurora Mobile’s strategies; Aurora Mobile’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Aurora Mobile’s ability to attract and retain customers; its ability to develop and effectively market data solutions, and penetrate the existing market for developer services; its ability to transition to the new advertising-driven SAAS business model; its ability to maintain or enhance its brand; the competition with current or future competitors; its ability to continue to gain access to mobile data in the future; the laws and regulations relating to data privacy and protection; general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of the press release, and Aurora Mobile undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

For more information, please contact:

Aurora Mobile Limited
E-mail: ir@jiguang.cn

Christensen

In China
Ms. Xiaoyan Su
Phone: +86-10-5900-1548
E-mail: Xiaoyan.Su@christensencomms.com

In US
Ms. Linda Bergkamp
Phone: +1-480-614-3004
Email: linda.bergkamp@christensencomms.com

The MIL Network –

July 8, 2025
‘No palm oil’ label is misleading marketing tactic, says IFBA

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

The Indian Food and Beverage Association (IFBA) has termed the growing trend of “No Palm Oil” labels on consumer products as misleading and described it as a marketing gimmick rather than a scientifically backed health claim.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the association expressed concern that selective branding tactics were creating confusion among consumers, despite palm oil being widely used and consumed in India since the 19th century.

“Palm oil has a recognised role in a healthy and balanced diet. Despite this, labels such as ‘No Palm Oil’ mislead consumers by prioritising marketing over science,” said Deepak Jolly, Chairperson of the IFBA, citing the Ministry of Health’s dietary guidelines.

The association pointed out that palm oil is among the most affordable and versatile edible oils, used extensively by leading global brands due to its long shelf life and nutritional stability.

It also cautioned that the rise of such labelling practices is encouraging consumers to make food choices based on social media trends rather than verified scientific evidence. “These narratives distract from the importance of overall nutritional balance and can undermine India’s efforts towards self-reliance, ultimately harming farmers, producers, consumers and the national economy,” Jolly said.

India consumes about 26 million tonnes of edible oil every year, of which nearly 9 million tonnes is palm oil.

Shilpa Agrawal, Director of Scientific and Regulatory Affairs at IFBA, noted that the Dietary Guidelines for Indians–2024, released by the ICMR–National Institute of Nutrition, recognise the role of tocotrienols found in palm oil in lowering cholesterol and supporting heart health. The guidelines recommend a rotation of edible oils, including palm oil, to maintain a balanced fatty acid profile, she added.

The association also lauded the government’s National Mission on Edible Oils–Oil Palm (NMEO-OP), launched in 2021 with an outlay of ₹11,040 crore, which aims to expand oil palm cultivation and reduce India’s dependence on edible oil imports.

“Consumers should be cautious of influencers who exaggerate claims without understanding nutrition science. Marketing tactics such as ‘Palm Oil Free’ labels are no substitute for balanced dietary advice,” the IFBA said.

-IANS

July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ban on controversial NDAs silencing abuse
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Ban on controversial NDAs silencing abuse

The Employment Rights Bill will ban employers from using non-disclosure agreements that silence workplace harassment and abuse.
Non-disclosure agreements used by employers to silence employees subjected to harassment and abuse to be banned.

Move to protect workers and stop victims from suffering in silence tabled as an amendment to landmark Employment Rights Bill.

Welcomed by campaigners, this change is part of wider measures included in the Bill to back workers as part of the government’s Plan for Change.

Employees who are subject to harassment or discrimination will no longer be silenced by controversial non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), as part of amendments to the Employment Rights Bill.

Changes set to be introduced to the Bill, which is due to return to the Lords next week, will void NDAs used by employers against employees who have been subjected to harassment, including sexual harassment or discrimination in the workplace – no longer forcing them to suffer in silence.

The move will also mean that witnesses to this abhorrent behaviour can call it out and publicly support victims without the threat of being sued.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said:

We have heard the calls from victims of harassment and discrimination to end the misuse of NDAs.

It is time we stamped this practice out – and this government is taking action to make that happen.

The Employment Rights Bill will ban any NDA used for this purpose, so that no one is forced to suffer in silence.

Employment Rights Minister Justin Madders said:

The misuse of NDAs to silence victims or harassment or discrimination is an appalling practice that this government has been determined to end.

These amendments will give millions of workers confidence that inappropriate behaviour in the workplace will be dealt with, not hidden, allowing them to get on with building a prosperous and successful career.

NDAs is a catch-all term to describe any agreement containing confidentiality or non-disparagement clauses or used to describe those clauses themselves. These contracts or clauses restrict what a signatory can say, or who they can tell, about something.

Their original purpose was to protect intellectual property or other commercial or sensitive information, but reports have shown they have become commonly used to prevent people speaking out about horrific experiences in the workplace.

There have been many high-profile cases of NDAs being used to prevent victims from speaking about crimes, often forcing women and vulnerable individuals to feel stuck in unwanted situations, through fear or desperation.

If passed, these rules will mean that any confidentiality clauses in settlement agreements or other agreements that seek to prevent a worker speaking about an allegation of harassment or discrimination will be null and void. This will allow victims to speak freely about their experiences and their employer able to support them publicly.

Campaign group Can’t Buy My Silence, spearheaded by Zelda Perkins, former PA to Harvey Weinstein, has led the charge in calling for this change, alongside MPs such as Louise Haigh and Sarah Russell.

Zelda Perkins, Founder of the campaign Can’t Buy My Silence UK, said:

This is a huge milestone, for years, we’ve heard empty promises from governments whilst victims have continued to be silenced, to see this Government accept the need for nationwide legal change shows that they have listened and understood the abuse of power taking place.

Above all though, this victory belongs to the people who broke their NDAs, who risked everything to speak the truth when they were told they couldn’t. Without their courage, none of this would be happening.

This is not over yet and we will continue to focus closely on this to ensure the regulations are watertight and no one can be forced into silence again. If what is promised at this stage becomes reality, then the UK will be leading the world in protecting not only workers but the integrity of the law.

The amendments being tabled today will add to the measures already in place in the Employment Rights Bill – landmark legislation introduced as part of the government’s Plan for Change – ensuring workers’ rights are fair and fit for a modern economy, while tackling the low pay and poor working conditions still facing people up and down the country.

ENDS

Note to editors:

This government is delivering the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation—backed by business and public support. For too long, the UK has lagged behind other advanced economies in modernising employment protections. That’s why we’re banning exploitative zero-hours contracts, ending fire and rehire, introducing day-one rights to sick pay and parental leave, and extending bereavement leave to those facing pregnancy loss through this legislation. These reforms boost job security and wellbeing, which in turn drives productivity and economic growth—the top priority in our Plan for Change.

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Published 8 July 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Canon Academy Collaborates with Kwetu Film Institute in Rwanda to Expand its Educational Footprint in Africa with First-Ever Creative Workshops
Source: APO – Report:
- Canon Academy offers a comprehensive educational program featuring hands-on workshops covering a wide range of photography topics. To date, we have successfully trained 103 students through this initiative.
- The programme offers a comprehensive curriculum blending theory and practice, where expert trainers instill confidence and passion while covering essential topics like exposure triangle, composition, lighting, focus, and more.
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (https://en.Canon-CNA.com), a leader in imaging technology, has officially launched the Canon Academy in Rwanda in collaboration with Kwetu Film Institute, marking the company’s first educational programme in the country. This strategic milestone reinforces Canon’s long-standing commitment to investing in Africa’s creative talent through education, empowerment, and the promotion of inclusive opportunities for emerging image-makers.

Canon Academy is a key component of the company’s broader efforts to advance the creative sector across the continent. Aligned with Canon’s Kyosei philosophy, “Living and Working Together for the Common Good,” the programme aims to equip aspiring and professional photographers in Rwanda with high-quality training, and relevant industry knowledge.

Rashad Ghani, B2C Business Unit Director, said, “The launch of the Canon Academy in Rwanda is a proud moment for us. This initiative reflects Canon’s belief in the power of education and the role of creativity role in building resilient communities. By investing in Rwanda’s young talent, we are building a bridge between imagination and opportunity, staying true to our Kyosei philosophy and our broader mission to uplift Africa’s creative economy.”

Canon Academy is dedicated to Canon users, offering hands-on experiences across a wide array of topics. Workshops are led by certified Canon trainers, ensuring that participants benefit from the expertise of seasoned professionals. The programme caters to different skill levels, from beginners to professionals, allowing each participant to grow at their own pace.

A WEEK OF LEARNING AND CREATIVITY

The inaugural Canon Academy programme, held last week in Kigali, brought together a diverse group of Rwandan participants ranging from students and beginners to semi-professionals and established photographers. Over the course of the week, participants took part in hands-on workshops, mentorship sessions, and practical exercises led by Canon-certified trainer Fred Ochieng.

Key focus areas included lighting, composition, visual storytelling, and portfolio development. These were tailored to equip participants with the technical and creative skills essential for success in Rwanda’s evolving visual storytelling landscape. In addition to skill-building, the programme offered a platform for participants to showcase their work and build meaningful connections within the creative community.

About Kwetu Film Institute

Based in Kigali, Kwetu Film Institute is one of East Africa’s premier creative hubs, committed to developing the next generation of storytellers through film and media. Founded by celebrated filmmaker Eric Kabera, the institute serves as a training ground and incubator for aspiring filmmakers, offering a blend of theoretical education and practical production experience. Kwetu is renowned for nurturing homegrown talent and using storytelling as a powerful tool for cultural preservation, dialogue, and social change.

Eric Kabera, Founder of Kwetu Film Institute, commented: “Our collaboration with Canon is a natural extension of our mission to empower creatives through access to quality education and global partnerships. Together, we are planting seeds that will grow Rwanda’s next generation of image-makers and storytellers, enabling them to compete and thrive on the global stage.”

With the establishment of this programme, Canon is further solidifying its commitment to inclusive development through localised engagement and hands-on skills training. The initiative is designed to build skills and strengthen the wider creative infrastructure within the region. By empowering young people with practical tools, industry insights, and educational opportunities, Canon is helping to transform creative potential into viable professions, ultimately contributing to the growth and diversification of the country’s creative economy.

Canon continues to prioritise the growth of Africa’s next generation of storytellers by developing platforms that harness the power of technology, education, and collaboration. The establishment of the Canon Academy in Rwanda reflects this ongoing commitment, one that extends beyond imaging innovation to champion people, purpose, and advancement across the continent.

– on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa
Mai Youssef
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com

APO Group – PR Agency
Rania ElRafie
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com

About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (https://en.Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region – by strengthening Canon’s in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon’s commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.

Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.

Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei (https://apo-opa.co/4nD9Kzg) – ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.

For more information: (https://en.Canon-CNA.com)

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MIL OSI Africa –
July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: ICC recommendations for inclusive AI that delivers for business and society
Source: International Chamber of Commerce

Headline: ICC recommendations for inclusive AI that delivers for business and society
Share this:
Inclusive AI is not just a matter of fairness – it is essential for unlocking the full potential of AI for business and society alike. Without broad access to digital infrastructure, data, skills and ethical frameworks, entire markets risk being left behind, limiting innovation and economic growth, and deepening the existing digital divide.

This not only holds back communities in the Global South but also narrows the opportunities for businesses to scale solutions, enter new markets and build globally relevant AI systems.

Why does inclusive AI matter?

Inclusive AI ensures that artificial intelligence systems actively empower and benefit people, regardless of geography or language. It opens new possibilities to accelerate sustainable development, supports transformative outcomes across critical sectors including healthcare and education, and drives innovation and economic growth across economies. By prioritising inclusion, we can ensure the benefits of AI are shared widely and help close existing global gaps.

What’s holding back inclusive AI?

Barriers such as limited digital infrastructure, lack of access to quality data and compute and significant skills gaps – especially in the Global South – are slowing inclusive AI progress. Many AI models are also not designed with diverse languages or local contexts in mind. These challenges persist despite widespread connectivity coverage. Fragmented regulatory environments, limited investment in local innovation and language barriers further widen the AI divide.

Without targeted support, these gaps will continue to exclude large parts of the world from AI-driven development.

ICC recommendations: what can business and governments do to achieve inclusive AI?

Invest in foundational infrastructure such as clean energy, broadband connectivity, and sustainable data centres.

Expand access to high-quality, interoperable public data.

Ensure inclusive digital education and workforce training across all levels.

Promote homegrown innovation, including linguistic inclusion and support for local AI ecosystems.

Adopt national strategies that align with international ethical frameworks.

Update regulatory systems, particularly around data governance, privacy, and cybersecurity.

Integrate AI standards into public procurement.

More insights

Digital economy

Overarching narrative on artificial intelligence
MIL OSI Economics –
July 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: ICC recommendations for inclusive AI that delivers for business and society
Source: International Chamber of Commerce

Headline: ICC recommendations for inclusive AI that delivers for business and society
Share this:
Inclusive AI is not just a matter of fairness – it is essential for unlocking the full potential of AI for business and society alike. Without broad access to digital infrastructure, data, skills and ethical frameworks, entire markets risk being left behind, limiting innovation and economic growth, and deepening the existing digital divide.

This not only holds back communities in the Global South but also narrows the opportunities for businesses to scale solutions, enter new markets and build globally relevant AI systems.

Why does inclusive AI matter?

Inclusive AI ensures that artificial intelligence systems actively empower and benefit people, regardless of geography or language. It opens new possibilities to accelerate sustainable development, supports transformative outcomes across critical sectors including healthcare and education, and drives innovation and economic growth across economies. By prioritising inclusion, we can ensure the benefits of AI are shared widely and help close existing global gaps.

What’s holding back inclusive AI?

Barriers such as limited digital infrastructure, lack of access to quality data and compute and significant skills gaps – especially in the Global South – are slowing inclusive AI progress. Many AI models are also not designed with diverse languages or local contexts in mind. These challenges persist despite widespread connectivity coverage. Fragmented regulatory environments, limited investment in local innovation and language barriers further widen the AI divide.

Without targeted support, these gaps will continue to exclude large parts of the world from AI-driven development.

ICC recommendations: what can business and governments do to achieve inclusive AI?

Invest in foundational infrastructure such as clean energy, broadband connectivity, and sustainable data centres.

Expand access to high-quality, interoperable public data.

Ensure inclusive digital education and workforce training across all levels.

Promote homegrown innovation, including linguistic inclusion and support for local AI ecosystems.

Adopt national strategies that align with international ethical frameworks.

Update regulatory systems, particularly around data governance, privacy, and cybersecurity.

Integrate AI standards into public procurement.

More insights

Digital economy

Overarching narrative on artificial intelligence
MIL OSI Economics –
July 8, 2025