Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
March 17, 2025
SPRINGFIELD – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA), members of the Senate Agriculture Committee, along with 29 Senators, sent a letter demanding a reversal of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) cancellation of food purchase programs across the United States, warning of the harmful impacts this move will have on both families and American farmers. Slashing funding for locally sourced, nutritious food in schools showcases the hypocrisy of the Trump Administration’s claims about wanting to improve healthy food for children.
“We ask that you reverse the cancellation,” the Senators wrote. “We have grave concerns that the cancellation… poses extreme harm to producers and communities in every state across the country. At a time of uncertainty in farm country, farmers need every opportunity to be able to expand market access for their products.”
In Illinois, cancellation of purchases through the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA) and the Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program (LFS) puts more than $26 million in food purchases for 4,017 schools and 1,250 child care centers at risk in Fiscal Year 2025.
The letter was also signed by Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NM), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Angus King (I-ME), Edward Markey (D-MA), Jeffrey Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).
The full letter sent to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins can be found here and below:
Dear Secretary Rollins:
We write to express serious concerns regarding the cancellation of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs supporting local and regional food purchases providing assistance to those in need. These successful programs, the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA) and the Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program (LFS), allow states, territories, and Tribes to purchase local foods from nearby farmers and ranchers to be used for emergency food providers, schools, and child care centers.
At a time when food insecurity remains high, providing affordable, fresh food to food banks and families while supporting American farmers is critical. Notably, LFPA and LFS have benefitted producers and consumers by providing funding for purchases through all 50 states, four territories, and 84 tribal governments. Through LFPA and LFS, USDA has prioritized the procurement and distribution of healthy, nutritious, domestic food. It has also taken an important step towards igniting rural prosperity by expanding and strengthening markets among farmers and rural economies. As of December 2024, the programs had supported over 8,000 producers, providing increased marketing opportunities.
Most importantly, we ask that you reverse the cancellation of LFPA and LFS. We also ask that you provide a thorough and complete update on USDA’s implementation of LFPA and LFS, including answers to the following questions:
1. What is the status of reimbursements for entities that have agreements with USDA through LFPA and LFS? What is the last date for which states, territories, and Tribes received reimbursements for food purchases under LFPA and LFS?
2. Has the Administration conducted any assessments of how these program cancellations will impact producers and recipient organizations (e.g., food banks, schools, child care centers)? If so, please provide a copy of any such assessments.
We have grave concerns that the cancellation of LFPA and LFS poses extreme harm to producers and communities in every state across the country. At a time of uncertainty in farm country, farmers need every opportunity to be able to expand market access for their products.
Please provide responses to the information requested in our questions no later than Friday, April 4. Thank you for your attention to this urgent and important matter.
-30-
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A Davis County man pleaded guilty in court today to embezzling approximately $1.7 million from his employer for his own benefit.
Timothy Sean Edgar, 44, of Farmington, Utah, was charged by felony information March 11, 2025, for wire fraud and money laundering.
According to court documents and admissions made at the change of plea hearing, beginning in 2021 and continuing until October 2024, Edgar defrauded his employer to obtain money and property by stealing and lying. As part of Edgar’s scheme, he fraudulently opened a sales channel through a popular online marketplace and used his employment credentials to access the vendor portal and redirect Automated Clearing House payments to his personal bank account. Edgar then made payments back to his employer using his personal credit card. Edgar embezzled approximately $1,778,251 from his employer.
Edgar is scheduled to be sentenced August 7, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. before a U.S. District Court Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.
Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti of the District of Utah made the announcement.
The case is being investigated jointly by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), FBI Salt Lake City Field Office, and the North Salt Lake City Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorneys Mark E. Woolf and Jacob J. Strain of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah are prosecuting the case.
The price of eggs has risen dramatically in recent years across the US. A dozen eggs cost US$1.20 (92p) in June 2019, but the price is now around US$4.90 (with a peak of US$8.17 in early March).
Some restaurants have imposed surcharges on egg-based dishes, bringing even more attention to escalating costs. And there are also shortages on supermarket shelves.
In the coming months, the US plans to import up to 100 million of this consumer staple. Government officials are approaching countries from Turkey to Brazil with enquiries about eggs for export.
Agriculture secretary Brooke Rollins, who previously said that one option to the crisis was for people to get a chicken for their backyard, suggested in the Wall Street Journal that prices are unlikely to stabilise for some months. And Donald Trump recently shared an article on Truth Social calling on the public to “shut up about egg prices”.
The main cause of the problem is an outbreak of avian flu that has resulted in over 166 million birds in the US being slaughtered. Around 98% of the nation’s chickens are produced on factory farms, which are ripe for contagion.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, the flu has already spread to several hundred dairy cattle and to one human. The USDA recently announced a US$1 billion plan to counter the problem, with funding for improved bio-security, vaccine research and compensation to farmers.
In January 2025, Donald Trump’s White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, blamed the previous administration for high egg prices. It is true that birds were slaughtered on President Joe Biden’s watch, but this was and remains standard practice at times of bird flu outbreaks and had also been the case during the Obama and first Trump administrations.
However, this points to the way the rising price of eggs has become a political touchstone. It was referred to regularly in campaign speeches and press briefings as a sign of things going wrong and a symbol of the US economy faced. Donald Trump promised to fix the price of eggs swiftly if elected, but so far the issue shows no sign of going away.
Prices are still trending up. Even when prices suddenly drop, as they have this week, the public know how much cheaper they used to be until recently, and do not tend to feel better.
There are a number of reasons why egg prices have become an important to US politicians. First, almost everyone buys eggs. So the shortage and subsequent price rise is newsworthy and affects consumers in all income brackets.
Secondly, they are a measure of broader economic vulnerabilities, so egg-related problems tend to be part of a larger story about how weak the economy is. And thirdly, egg prices are political because of Trump’s promise to bring them down.
Polls showed that the economy and inflation were key factors in voter choice on election day 2024. In February 2025, Donald Trump did an interview with NBC News in which he said he won the election on the border and groceries.
On immigration, voters often base their opinions on what they perceive to be true. For example, tough rhetoric on building a wall may equate with a sense of feeling that the president is taking strong action, whether anything tangible actually materialises or not.
With groceries, reality trumps perception. The price of eggs is printed on the box and the cost is paid directly by voters.
Donald Trump on what he’s doing on egg prices and the economy.
Then there are the egg producers. US farmers tended to overwhelmingly support Trump on election day, so it is prudent for him to feel their pain, or at least appear to. Farming areas voted for him increasingly in his three election efforts, even increasing their support for him in 2020 after trade wars and price increases which would have negatively impacted them.
Another factor that may push up egg prices is that an estimated 70% of the factory farm workforce is immigrant labour, and as many as 40% are undocumented. Should the administration’s plans for high tariffs and mass deportations come to fruition, the industry would struggle to function.
Further food price increases will be inevitable, with potential exacerbation via the funding freezes for some USDA programmes that Trump has enacted. As of March 2025, US$1 billion in cuts has been announced, the consequences of which are already being felt by farmers. The “pain now for gain later” message is a tricky political sell.
Even in the current era of international turbulence, elections are largely won on more pedestrian matters. Specifically, “kitchen-table” economics is relatable to every voter, regardless of how grand, or not, their table is.
Americans will be aware that in neighbouring Canada, egg prices have not risen dramatically and there have not been shortages. But prices in Canada have been traditionally higher than the US, this is in part at least because farming standards differ.
The US does not have high welfare standards for agricultural workers or animals, and this shortcoming needs to be addressed in order to help reduce future risk of flu, but this is likely to also raise prices.
Blaming the previous incumbent is not a durable stance for Donald Trump. As former president Harry Truman might remind him: “The buck stops here.” Right at his desk.
Clodagh Harrington does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
More people in North Okanagan will soon have better access to healthy, fresh food as funding bolsters support for critical food infrastructure.
The Land to Table Network Society received $1 million through the provincial Critical Food Infrastructure Fund (CFIF) to develop the Food Shed, a North Okanagan-based warehouse, which will support the distribution of nutritious food to those in need across multiple regions.
“We know that due to the global inflation and uncertainties, some people in B.C. and in our region are struggling to put good food on the table and to buy daily essentials like groceries; therefore, our government is continuing to take action,” said Harwinder Sandhu, parliamentary secretary for agriculture. “We are funding critical infrastructure updates that will connect community service agencies with local food suppliers, helping more people access fresh and local food to address this challenge.”
The project will involve upgrading a centrally located cold-storage warehouse in Armstrong to collect, combine, process, store, market and distribute food. The upgrades will help schools, institutions, food banks and non-profit organizations in nearby regions connect to year-round, local, affordable food.
The $14-million CFIF, announced in September 2023, will span three years and is administered by United Way British Columbia (United Way BC). It provides grants for food-infrastructure projects that increase a community’s capacity to offer nutritious and culturally appropriate food to people who need it.
“This unique, centralized distribution will increase sales opportunities for local producers, increasing employment and revenue,” said Liz Blakeway, executive director, Land to Table Network. “At the same time, it will help meet the growing demand that schools, food banks and non-profits experience for affordable food for the people they serve.”
The CFIF addresses some of the key challenges faced by communities, strengthening food security for those who need it the most.
Quotes:
Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction –
“We all want people to have access to nutritious food, so we’re taking more action to help people withstand the impacts of the trade war and global inflation. That’s why on top of hundreds of other projects, we’ve funded new critical infrastructure that helps people access fresh food in the North Okanagan and throughout B.C.”
Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food –
“When it comes to strengthening food security and food supply for British Columbians, collaboration is key. This project brings together important community partners, non-profits and government to strengthen the local food system and help more people access affordable nutritious food.”
Alžběta Sabová, director, food security, community impact and investment, United Way BC –
“Despite its abundant farmland, the North Okanagan faces food security challenges as families struggle with access to fresh, nutritious food and farmers have a hard time reaching secure markets. Transforming a cold-storage warehouse into a food hub for storage, processing and distribution tackles these issues directly. United Way BC is proud to help strengthen the local food system through this project, an inspiring rural food-security model with lasting impact across British Columbia.”
Eric Larocque, school food co-ordinator, Rocky Mountain School District No. 6 –
“Having worked in the food-security sector for several years now, it has become apparent that there are large infrastructure and logistical challenges facing the Interior of British Columbia. A lot of rural and remote communities face issues accessing fresh and B.C.-grown foods, especially in our food banks and school food programs. It is through initiatives like this that real, positive changes can be made in food access and food security for all families in our province.”
Quick Facts:
In 2024, the B.C. government announced that more than $7.2 million of the CFIF has been distributed to more than 100 organizations to support small and medium-sized projects that help people throughout B.C. put food on the table.
Grants from the CFIF are helping community organizations, including Indigenous organizations and First Nations, build, buy and improve warehouse storage space and equipment, buy refrigerated vehicles to transport food, and buy equipment to preserve and process food for extended shelf life.
By increasing the capacity for storing, transporting and redistributing food locally, the grants help increase year-round availability of nourishing and culturally appropriate foods.
Learn More:
To learn more about the CFIF, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023SDPR0057-001516 and https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024SDPR0013-001349
To learn more about Land to Table Network, visit: https://landtotablenetwork.com/
For more information about United Way British Columbia, visit: https://uwbc.ca/program/food-security/
Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-IN) in reintroducing the Fair and Open Competition Act (FOCA), which would prevent the federal government from mandating project labor agreements (PLAs) on federal projects funded by taxpayers. This legislation would provide more opportunities to bid on government work, increase workforce competition, lower government construction costs, and save taxpayer dollars.
Sen. Tuberville cosponsored this legislation in the 118th Congress.
“Alabama’s workers deserve an equal playing field,” said Sen. Tuberville. “Alabama is a Right-to-Work state, and that means we don’t force workers to unionize. Construction companies and workers should win bids based off of merit, not their unionization status. I am proud to work with my colleagues to protect workers, boost business, and lower costs.”
“The Fair and Open Competition Act is pro-worker legislation that will restore competition in the construction industry, protect Hoosier workers from discriminatory contracts, and lower costs for taxpayers,” said Sen. Young. “Growing up with a dad who ran a small business and around family members and close friends who were union members, I appreciate what everyone brings to the table. This bill strikes the right balance to ensure various contractors can bid on these projects on their own merits.”
Sens. Tuberville and Young were joined by Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), John Cornyn (R-TX), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), James Lankford (R-OK), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Jim Risch (R-ID), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Thom Tillis (R-NC) in cosponsoring the legislation.
Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA-3) led the effort in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Read full text of the legislation here.
BACKGROUND:
On February 4, 2022, President Biden issued Executive Order 14063, requiring federal contracting agencies to mandate Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) on federal construction projects valued at $35 million or more, with limited exceptions. This new mandate poses serious risks:
It effectively bars over 80% of the U.S. construction workforce—those who are non-union—from competing on these federal projects.
Taxpayers bear the cost, as various studies have shown that PLAs can increase construction costs by 12% to 20%.
Right-to-work states are especially harmed when local non-union workers are shut out of cooperative federal projects.
Specifically, the FOCA would:
Prohibit federal agencies from requiring PLAs as a condition of winning a contract.
Permit contractors and subcontractors to decide if a PLA is suitable on a case-by-case basis—without government interference.
Direct the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to be updated within 60 days to remove or block any requirement that contractors enter into PLAs.
Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.
Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
In New York, the cancellation of funding jeopardizes more than $63 million for food purchases for food banks, schools, child care centers
Senator Gillibrand joined a group of 31 senators demanding a reversal of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s cancellation of food purchase programs across the United States, warning of the harmful impacts this move will have on New York families and farmers.
The USDA has canceled funding through the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA) and the Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program (LFS). These programs allow state, territorial, and Tribal governments to purchase food from American farmers to be distributed to food banks, schools, and child care centers across the country. In New York, cancellation of LFPA and LFS funding puts more than $63 million for food purchases at risk in Fiscal Year 2025.
“I have grave concerns about the impact that this cancellation will have on New York’s farmers and the families that rely on food banks, school lunch programs, and child care centers for their daily meals,”said Senator Gillibrand.“At a time of uncertainty in farm country, farmers need every opportunity to be able to expand market access for their products, and this move jeopardizes that access. Furthermore, this will decrease the availability of local foods for the programs that rely on them to feed New Yorkers in need. I am vehemently opposed to the USDA’s decision, and I will fight for its reversal.”
In the letter, which is led by Senators Adam Schiff (D-CA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), the lawmakers said the reported $1 billion in canceled funding adds further pain at a time of high food prices and instability within U.S. agricultural markets.
The full letter sent to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins can be found here and below:
Dear Secretary Rollins:
We write to express serious concerns regarding the cancellation of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs supporting local and regional food purchases providing assistance to those in need. These successful programs, the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA) and the Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program (LFS), allow states, territories, and Tribes to purchase local foods from nearby farmers and ranchers to be used for emergency food providers, schools, and child care centers.
At a time when food insecurity remains high, providing affordable, fresh food to food banks and families while supporting American farmers is critical. Notably, LFPA and LFS have benefitted producers and consumers by providing funding for purchases through all 50 states, four territories, and 84 tribal governments. Through LFPA and LFS, USDA has prioritized the procurement and distribution of healthy, nutritious, domestic food. It has also taken an important step towards igniting rural prosperity by expanding and strengthening markets among farmers and rural economies. As of December 2024, the programs had supported over 8,000 producers, providing increased marketing opportunities.
Most importantly, we ask that you reverse the cancellation of LFPA and LFS. We also ask that you provide a thorough and complete update on USDA’s implementation of LFPA and LFS, including answers to the following questions:
What is the status of reimbursements for entities that have agreements with USDA through LFPA and LFS? What is the last date for which states, territories, and Tribes received reimbursements for food purchases under LFPA and LFS?
Has the Administration conducted any assessments of how these program cancellations will impact producers and recipient organizations (e.g., food banks, schools, child care centers)? If so, please provide a copy of any such assessments.
We have grave concerns that the cancellation of LFPA and LFS poses extreme harm to producers and communities in every state across the country. At a time of uncertainty in farm country, farmers need every opportunity to be able to expand market access for their products.
Please provide responses to the information requested in our questions no later than Friday, April 4. Thank you for your attention to this urgent and important matter.
The cumulative exports (merchandise & services) during April-February2024-25 is estimated at USD 750.53 Billion, as compared to USD 706.43 Billion in April-February2023-24, an estimated growth of 6.24%
The cumulative value of merchandise exports during April-February2024-25 was USD 395.63 Billion, as compared to USD 395.38 Billion during April-February2023-24, registering a positive growth of 0.06%
The cumulative Non-Petroleum exports in April-February2024-25 valued at USD 337.01Billion registered an increase of 6.43% as compared to USD 316.64Billion in April-February2023-24
Major drivers of merchandise exports growth in February2025 include Electronic Goods, Rice, Mica, Coal & Other Ores, Minerals including processed minerals, RMG of all Textiles and Coffee
Electronic Goods exports increased by 26.46% from USD 3 Billion in February2024 to USD 3.79 Billion in February2025
RMG of all Textiles exports increased by 3.97 % from USD 1.48 Billion in February 2024 to USD 1.53 Billion in February 2025
Rice exports increased by 13.21% from USD 1.05 Billion in February2024 to USD 1.19 Billion in February2025
Marine products exports increased by 3.40% from USD 0.49 Billion in February 2024 to USD 0.51 Billion in February 2025
Mica, Coal & Other Ores, Minerals including processed minerals exports increased by 24.25% from USD 0.40 Billion in February2024 to USD 0.50 Billion in February2025
Coffeeexports increased by 22.32% from USD 0.15 Billion in February2024 to USD 0.18 Billion in February2025
Posted On: 17 MAR 2025 6:44PM by PIB Delhi
India’s total exports (Merchandise and Services combined) for February2025* is estimated at USD 71.95 Billion, registering a positivegrowth of 3.16 percent vis-à-vis February2024.Total imports (Merchandise and Services combined) for February2025* is estimated at USD 67.52 Billion, registering a negative growth of (-)11.34 percent vis-à-vis February2024.
Table 1: Trade during February2025*
February2025
(USD Billion)
February2024
(USD Billion)
Merchandise
Exports
36.91
41.41
Imports
50.96
60.92
Services*
Exports
35.03
28.33
Imports
16.55
15.23
Total Trade
(Merchandise +Services) *
Exports
71.95
69.74
Imports
67.52
76.15
Trade Balance
4.43
-6.41
* Note: The latest data for services sector released by RBI is for January2025. The data for February2025 is an estimation, which will be revised based on RBI’s subsequent release. (ii) Data for April-February2023-24 and April-September2024 has been revised on pro-rata basis using quarterly balance of payments data.
Fig 1: Total Trade during February2025*
India’s total exports during April-February2024-25* is estimated at USD 750.53 Billion registering a positive growth of 6.24 percent. Total imports during April-February2024-25* is estimated at USD 839.89 Billion registering a growth of 7.28 percent.
Table 2: Trade during April-February2024-25*
April-February2024-25
(USD Billion)
April-February2023-24
(USD Billion)
Merchandise
Exports
395.63
395.38
Imports
656.68
621.19
Services*
Exports
354.90
311.05
Imports
183.21
161.71
Total Trade
(Merchandise +Services) *
Exports
750.53
706.43
Imports
839.89
782.90
Trade Balance
-89.37
-76.47
Fig 2: Total Trade during April-February2024-25*
MERCHANDISE TRADE
Merchandise exports during February2025 were USD 36.91 Billion as compared to USD 41.41 Billion in February2024.
Merchandise imports during February2025 were USD 50.96 Billion as compared to USD 60.92 Billion in February2024.
Fig 3: Merchandise Trade during February2025
Merchandise exports during April-February2024-25 were USD 395.63 Billion as compared to USD 395.38Billion during April-February2023-24.
Merchandise imports during April-February2024-25 were USD 656.68 Billion as compared to USD 621.19 Billion during April-February2023-24.
Merchandise trade deficit during April-February2024-25 was USD 261.06 Billion as compared to USD 225.81 Billion during April-February2023-24.
Fig4: Merchandise Trade during April-February2024-25
Non-petroleum and non-gems & jewellery exports in February2025 were USD 28.57Billion compared to USD 29.99Billion in February2024.
Non-petroleum, non-gems & jewellery (gold, silver & precious metals) imports in February2025 were USD 35.02Billion compared to USD 33.96Billion in February2024.
Table 3: Trade excluding Petroleum and Gems & Jewellery during February2025
Fig 5: Trade excluding Petroleum and Gems & Jewellery during February2025
Non-petroleum and non-gems & jewellery exports in April-February2024-25 were USD 310.09 Billion, compared to USD 286.55 Billion in April-February2023-24.
Non-petroleum, non-gems & jewellery (gold, silver & precious metals) imports in April-February2024-25 were USD 415.85 Billion, compared to USD 388.82 Billion in April-February2023-24.
Table 4: Trade excluding Petroleum and Gems & Jewellery during April-February2024-25
Fig 6: Trade excluding Petroleum and Gems & Jewellery during April-February2024-25
SERVICES TRADE
The estimated value of services export for February2025* is USD 35.03 Billion as compared to USD 28.33Billion in February2024.
The estimated value of services imports for February2025* is USD 16.55 Billion as compared to USD 15.23Billion in February2024.
Fig 7: Services Trade during February2025*
The estimated value of service exports during April-February2024-25* is USD 354.90 Billion as compared to USD 311.05 Billion in April-February2023-24.
The estimated value of service imports during April-February2024-25* is USD 183.21 Billion as compared to USD 161.71 Billion in April-February2023-24.
The services trade surplus for April-February2024-25* is USD 171.69 Billion as compared to USD 149.34 Billion in April-February2023-24.
Fig 8: Services Trade during April-February2024-25*
Exports ofTobacco (26.76%), Electronic Goods (26.46%), Mica, Coal & Other Ores, Minerals Including Processed Minerals (24.25%), Coffee (22.32%), Rice (13.21%), Jute Mfg. Including Floor Covering (12.41%), Other Cereals (11.65%), Meat, Dairy & Poultry Products (6.7%), Carpet (4.87%), Rmg Of All Textiles (3.97%), Marine Products (3.4%), Spices (0.98%) and Fruits & Vegetables (0.87%) record positive growth during February2025 over the corresponding month of last year.
Imports of Silver (-75.04%), Gold (-61.98%), Pearls, Precious & Semi-Precious Stones (-41.61%), Coal, Coke & Briquettes, Etc. (-35.63%), Petroleum, Crude & Products (-29.59%), Iron & Steel (-23.37%), Transport Equipment (-16.93%), Newsprint (-12.43%), Artificial Resins, Plastic Materials, Etc. (-6.21%), Professional Instrument, Optical Goods, Etc. (-5.01%), Machine Tools (-3.68%), Fruits & Vegetables (-0.93%) record negative growth during February2025 over the corresponding month of last year.
Services exports is estimated to grow by 14.10percent during April-February2024-25* over April-February2023-24.
Top 5 export destinations, in terms of change in value, exhibiting positive growth in February2025 vis a vis February2024 are U S A (10.37%), Australia (76.19%), Japan (26.55%), Brazil (10.85%) and Nigeria (10.75%).
Top 5 export destinations, in terms of change in value, exhibiting positive growth in April-February2024-25 vis a vis April-February2023-24 are U S A (9.1%), U Arab Emts (5.19%), U K (12.47%), Japan (21.67%) and Netherland (3.68%).
Top 5 import sources, in terms of change in value, exhibiting growth in February2025 vis a vis February2024 are Thailand (145.45%), China P Rp (7.83%), Brazil (162.18%), Ireland (117.17%) and Oman (30.24%).
Top 5 import sources, in terms of change in value, exhibiting growth in April-February2024-25 vis a vis April-February2023-24 are U Arab Emts (29.21%), China P Rp (10.41%), Thailand (42.4%), U S A (7.23%) and Russia (4.9%).
‘India 2047: Building a Climate Resilient Future’ Conference to be organized by MoEFCC in collaboration with Two Institutes at Harvard University USA, in New Delhi from 19th – 22nd March 2025 Four days Conference to focus on Adaptation and Resilience to Climate Change
Posted On: 17 MAR 2025 6:06PM by PIB Delhi
Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), in collaboration with two institutes at the Harvard University, USA, is organizing a Conference on ‘India 2047: Building a Climate-Resilient Future’, from 19th – 22nd March 2025, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute and the Salata Institute For Climate and Sustainability at the Harvard University, USA are the organising partners for the event. This event will serve to identify the key challenges in adaptation and fine tune India’s response in terms of policies, programmes and action at the field level geared towards a climate-resilient India@2047.
Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairperson, NITI Aayog and Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh will grace the inaugural session of this conference. The event would also be addressed by distinguished speakers from Government of India, academia, research institutions, private sector and the Harvard University. Notable amongst these are Prof. Tarun Khanna, Director, The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute and Jorge Paulo Lemann Professor at the Harvard Business School; Prof. Jim Stock, Vice Provost for Climate and Sustainability at Harvard University, Prof. Daniel P. Schrag, Professor of Environmental Science and Engineering at Harvard University, amongst others.
The Conference will be organized over a period of four days, where multiple breakout sessions with several technical sessions focusing on adaptation and resilience under the following themes: (i) Climate Science and its implications on Water & Agriculture, (ii) Health, (iii) Work, and (iv) Built Environment.
The theme on Climate Science and its implications on Agriculture and Water will explore the scientific, policy, and practical dimensions of adapting to heatwaves, changing monsoon patterns, and water distribution issues.
The theme on Health convenes leading health professionals and health system experts, from India and the world to address essential questions on the impact of heat.
The theme on Work will focus on impact of climate change on labour productivity.
The theme on Built Environment seeks to examine how built environment should be prepared for rising temperatures over the coming decades.
There will be several crosscutting issues across these themes, such as governance, traditional knowledge, livelihood and skilling, gender, and financing. The workshops aim to generate tangible outputs such as research papers, technical documents, and policy briefs, as agreed upon by participants to contribute scientific evidence to global initiatives. This event will be a special opportunity to discuss adaptation and resilience to climate change amongst a receptive and influential audience in a location where this issue is an immediate concern.
This Conference will bring together government, academia, civil society, private sector, and other relevant stakeholders to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change. It will enable stakeholders to develop strategies for a sustainable and climate-resilient future for India, which will require multipronged interdisciplinary planning.
With a focus on policy integration, scientific advancements, and localized adaptation strategies, the Conference aims to bridge critical knowledge gaps that hinder effective climate planning. This is not just another Conference —it is a crucial opportunity to engage with influential stakeholders in the region where climate adaptation is an urgent priority. The insights gathered here will directly contribute to shaping India’s upcoming National Adaptation Plan, ensuring that it is evidence-based, inclusive, and aligned with India’s broader development goals.
As India approaches its centenary of independence in 2047, this upcoming Conference will be a significant step toward ensuring a climate-resilient future, backed by innovation, collaboration, and actionable policy insights.
About The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute
The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute is a university-wide research institute at Harvard that engages in interdisciplinary research to advance and deepen the understanding of critical issues in South Asia and its relationship with the world.
About The Salata Institute For Climate and Sustainability
Established in 2022, The Salata Institute for Climate and Sustainability is an interdisciplinary hub dedicated to accelerating climate research, education, and action. Since 2023, the Salata Institute has supported the South Asia Adaptation Research Cluster, which comprises leading climate scientists, epidemiologists, planners, and experts. The cluster is dedicated to advancing climate adaptation research in the Indian subcontinent, focusing on the impacts of extreme heat and changing weather patterns. It aims to identify at-risk populations and inform targeted intervention strategies. The cluster collaborates with regional and international partners to ensure that adaptation strategies are both scientifically robust and aligned with local needs.
‘India 2047: Building a Climate Resilient Future’ Conference to be organized by MoEFCC in collaboration with the Harvard University USA, in New Delhi from 19th – 22nd March 2025 Four days Conference to focus on Adaptation and Resilience to Climate Change
Posted On: 17 MAR 2025 6:06PM by PIB Delhi
Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), in collaboration with the Harvard University, USA, is organizing a Conference on ‘India 2047: Building a Climate-Resilient Future’, from 19th – 22nd March 2025, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This event will serve to identify the key challenges in adaptation and fine tune India’s response in terms of policies, programmes and action at the field level geared towards a climate-resilient India@2047. The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute and the Salata Institute For Climate and Sustainability at the Harvard University, USA are the organising partners for the event.
Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairperson, NITI Aayog and Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh will grace the inaugural session of this conference. The event would also be addressed by distinguished speakers from Government of India, academia, research institutions, private sector and the Harvard University. Notable amongst these are Prof. Tarun Khanna, Director, The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute and Jorge Paulo Lemann Professor at the Harvard Business School; Prof. Jim Stock, Vice Provost for Climate and Sustainability at Harvard University, Prof. Daniel P. Schrag, Professor of Environmental Science and Engineering at Harvard University, amongst others.
The Conference will be organized over a period of four days, where multiple breakout sessions with several technical sessions focusing on adaptation and resilience under the following themes: (i) Climate Science and its implications on Water & Agriculture, (ii) Health, (iii) Work, and (iv) Built Environment.
The theme on Climate Science and its implications on Agriculture and Water will explore the scientific, policy, and practical dimensions of adapting to heatwaves, changing monsoon patterns, and water distribution issues.
The theme on Health convenes leading health professionals and health system experts, from India and the world to address essential questions on the impact of heat.
The theme on Work will focus on impact of climate change on labour productivity.
The theme on Built Environment seeks to examine how built environment should be prepared for rising temperatures over the coming decades.
There will be several crosscutting issues across these themes, such as governance, traditional knowledge, livelihood and skilling, gender, and financing. The workshops aim to generate tangible outputs such as research papers, technical documents, and policy briefs, as agreed upon by participants to contribute scientific evidence to global initiatives. This event will be a special opportunity to discuss adaptation and resilience to climate change amongst a receptive and influential audience in a location where this issue is an immediate concern.
This Conference will bring together government, academia, civil society, private sector, and other relevant stakeholders to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change. It will enable stakeholders to develop strategies for a sustainable and climate-resilient future for India, which will require multipronged interdisciplinary planning.
With a focus on policy integration, scientific advancements, and localized adaptation strategies, the Conference aims to bridge critical knowledge gaps that hinder effective climate planning. This is not just another Conference —it is a crucial opportunity to engage with influential stakeholders in the region where climate adaptation is an urgent priority. The insights gathered here will directly contribute to shaping India’s upcoming National Adaptation Plan, ensuring that it is evidence-based, inclusive, and aligned with India’s broader development goals.
As India approaches its centenary of independence in 2047, this upcoming Conference will be a significant step toward ensuring a climate-resilient future, backed by innovation, collaboration, and actionable policy insights.
About The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute
The Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute is a university-wide research institute at Harvard that engages in interdisciplinary research to advance and deepen the understanding of critical issues in South Asia and its relationship with the world.
About The Salata Institute For Climate and Sustainability
Established in 2022, The Salata Institute for Climate and Sustainability is an interdisciplinary hub dedicated to accelerating climate research, education, and action. Since 2023, the Salata Institute has supported the South Asia Adaptation Research Cluster, which comprises leading climate scientists, epidemiologists, planners, and experts. The cluster is dedicated to advancing climate adaptation research in the Indian subcontinent, focusing on the impacts of extreme heat and changing weather patterns. It aims to identify at-risk populations and inform targeted intervention strategies. The cluster collaborates with regional and international partners to ensure that adaptation strategies are both scientifically robust and aligned with local needs.
Research Milestones: M.Sc. and M.Tech. Postgraduate Presentations at ICAR-IARI’s 63rd Convocation in New Delhi 63rd Convocation of Indian Agricultural Research Institute-ICAR, New Delhi starts today
Posted On: 17 MAR 2025 6:00PM by PIB Delhi
The 63rd Convocation of Indian Agricultural Research Institute-ICAR, New Delhi today started with academic fervor. Today, the presentations of the Post Graduate Students Research (M.Sc./M. Tech.) representing various discipline (Agricultural Chemicals, Agricultural Economics, Agricultural Engineering, Agricultural Extension, Agricultural Physics, Agronomy, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Entomology, Environmental Sciences, Floriculture & Landscaping, Fruit Science, Genetics and Plant Breeding, Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Plant Genetic Resources, Plant Pathology, Plant Pathology, Plant Physiology, Seed Science & Technology, Soil Science and Vegetable Science) were held about the significant achievements for IARI Merit Medals and Best student of the year Award.
In this session the shortlisted students presented the achievements and salient features of the research. The major thematic areas of the research includes status of glyphosate residues in waters of NCR region and its sorption behavior in soil; gender-based study on varietal adoption, trait preference and value addition by paddy farmers: A case of selected stress prone districts of Odisha; Ergonomic assessment of powered cylindrical lawn mower; Rural women leadership in climate change adaptation and sustainable livelihood; Drone-based water stress monitoring under different irrigation and nitrogen levels in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.); Analyzing the yield gap of rice in a hilly-ecosystem using bio-physical modelling for different nitrogen levels; Development and validation of glucose nano sensor for predicting inherent glycemic response; Integrating Genome Wide Association Studies-module with HtP-DAP for SNP-trait associations mining; Identification of agriculturally important insects associated with cruciferous crops (Brassicaceae) using artificial intelligence; Isolation, characterization of biosurfactant and their effect on hydrocarbons’ degradation in different soils; Screening of marigold genotypes (Tagetes spp.) against Alternaria leaf spot under in vitro and in vivo conditions; Insights into the nut and food qualities of selected walnut (Juglans regia L.) genotypes; Genetic variability and molecular analysis of folate accumulation in maize kernels; Prospecting bacterial exopolysaccharides for plant growth stimulation; Exploring biocontrol potential by unraveling presence of chitinase genes and antifungal activity in Bacillus thuringiensis isolates representing diverse agroclimatic zones of India; Deciphering nutritional and molecular diversity in Luffa acutangula L. Roxb.; Characterization of virus associated with shoe-string disease affected tomato plant and management through exogenous application of dsRNA; Characterization of Tilletia indica, assessment of bioagents and identification of resistant sources for Karnal bunt of wheat; Physiological and biochemical characterization of common bean genotypes in reproductive stage under drought and heat stress; Prediction of seed vigour in rapeseed and mustard using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS); Impact of natural farming on carbon fractions and properties in an alfisol under rice-rabi maize system; Assessing genetic diversity in brinjal genotypes for resistance against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Melongenae.
The Chairman and jury members complimented the quality of post-graduate research and motivated to generate quality information for the advancement of agricultural sciences.
The sessions were convened by Dr. Anil Dahuja, Professor, Division of Biochemistry and the co-convener was Dr. Atul Kumar, Associate Dean (PG) ICAR-IARI.
The session was Chaired by Dr. B.M. Prasanna, Distinguished Scientist, CIMMYT and Regional Director, CIMMYT-Asia, NASC Complex, New Delhi. The esteemed Jury Members includes Dr. J.P. Sharma, Former Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-J, Jammu & Former Joint Director (Ext.), ICAR-IARI, New Delhi; Dr. R.K. Jain, Former Dean & Joint Director (Edn.), ICAR-IARI, New Delhi; Dr. Bimlesh Mann, ADG (EP & HS), ICAR, New Delhi; Dr. V.B. Patel, ADG (Fruits & Plantation Crops), ICAR, New Delhi; Dr. S.K. Sharma, ADG (HRM), ICAR, New Delhi.
Since 1 February 2025, Mr Lamberts has been a member of the temporary staff under Article 2 c) of the Conditions of Employment of other servants of the European Union (CEOS) in the Directorate-General IDEA (Inspire, Debate, Engage and Accelerate Action), future Policy Planning Staff, as Principal Adviser.
The terms and conditions of this position are those established by CEOS.
Your Excellency, Prime Minister Luxon, Delegates from both the countries, Friends from Media, Namaskar! Kia Ora!
I warmly welcome Prime Minister Luxon and his delegation to India. Prime Minister Luxon has had a long relationship with India. We all witnessed, how a few days ago, he celebrated the joyous festival of Holi in Auckland! Prime Minister Luxon’s affection towards the people of Indian origin living in New Zealand can also be seen from the fact that a large community delegation has accompanied him to India. It is a matter of great pleasure for us to have a young, energetic and talented leader like him as the Chief Guest of the Raisina Dialogue this year.
Friends,
Today we held in-depth discussions on various areas of our bilateral relations. We’ve decided to strengthen and institutionalise our defense and security collaboration. In addition to joint exercises, training, and port visits, a roadmap for bilateral defense industry collaboration will be developed. Our navies are working together in the Combined Task Force-150 for maritime security in the Indian Ocean. And, we are happy that a New Zealand naval ship is making a port call in Mumbai in two days.
Friends,
We have decided to begin discussions for a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement between the two countries. This shall increase the potential for bilateral trade and investment. Mutual cooperation and investment shall be encouraged in fields such as Dairy, Food Processing, and Pharma. We have given priority to mutual cooperation in the areas of Renewable Energy and Critical Minerals. Joint work shall be done in Forestry and Horticulture. I am confident that the large business delegation accompanying the Prime Minister shall get an opportunity to explore and understand the new possibilities in India.
Friends,
Whether it is cricket, hockey, or mountaineering, the two countries share a long-standing bond in sports. We have agreed to strengthen cooperation in sports coaching, player exchange, and areas such as sports science, psychology, and medicine. We have decided to celebrate 100 years of sports relations between our two nations in 2026.
Friends,
The Indian community living in New Zealand is making a valuable contribution to the country’s social and economic development. We have agreed to work swiftly on an agreement to simplify the mobility of skilled workers and address issues related to illegal migration. We shall also focus on enhancing UPI connectivity, promoting digital transactions, and boosting tourism. Our ties in the field of education are long-standing, and we invite universities from New Zealand to establish campuses in India.
Friends,
We stand united against terrorism. Whether it is the Christchurch terrorist attack of March 15, 2019 or the Mumbai attack of November 26, 2008, terrorism in any form is unacceptable. Strict action must be taken against those responsible for such attacks. We will continue to cooperate in combating terrorism, separatist, and extremist elements. In this regard, we have also shared our concerns about anti-India activities by certain illegal elements in New Zealand. We’re confident that we will continue to receive the full cooperation of the New Zealand Government against such illegal elements.
Friends,
We both support a free, open, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific. We believe in the policy of development, not expansionism. We welcome New Zealand joining the Indo-Pacific Ocean Initiative. Following its membership in the International Solar Alliance, we also congratulate New Zealand for joining the CDRI.
Friends,
Finally, in the language of Rugby, I would say – both of us are ready to “Front up” for a bright future in our relationship. We are ready to step up together and take responsibility for a bright partnership! And, I am confident that our partnership will prove to be a match-winning partnership for the people of both countries.
Thank you very much!
DISCLAIMER – This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s remarks. Original remarks were delivered
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Starting March 17, farmers can apply to receive funding support to acquire new technology to support their operations through the B.C. On-Farm Technology Adoption Program.
Launched in 2023 and delivered by Innovate BC, the B.C. On-Farm Technology Adoption Program provides B.C. and federal cost-shared funding to eligible participants, through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), to adopt new technologies on-farm that will enhance profitability, productivity, and/or efficiency. This is the third intake for the program and focuses on new commercially available farming technologies that will help grow, raise, harvest, pack or store food more effectively, productively or profitably. The program will focus on funding labour-saving technologies that help address labour shortages and improve processes for labour-intensive tasks.
“In light of the heightened focus on sustainability, now more than ever, it is crucial for consumers to buy local produce, as this not only supports local economies and reduces carbon footprints, but also provides fresher, more flavourful food.” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food. “Thanks to this program, we’re helping farmers and food producers all over the province use technology to increase their efficiency and production, as well as address labor challenges the sector is facing. This new intake will allow more producers to have the latest equipment and software on their farms so they can be more competitive, improve their bottom line, and produce more of the food that feeds our communities.”
Applications for this round of funding are open from March 17 to April 28. Farmers with operations within British Columbia can apply, with up to $2.25M available from the governments of Canada and British Columbia for the current 2025/2026 fiscal year.
Farmers can use the funding to buy new technologies, such as equipment and robotics that can operate independently and adapt to their environment. Examples are automated weeding equipment and harvesters or machinery that can perform tasks with minimal human interaction, like automated grading and sorting machines.
As of March 17, 2025, the program has awarded $4.12M to support 85 farm projects in B.C. with adopting new technologies.
“With rising costs and shifting market conditions, investing in innovation is more critical than ever to strengthen local food security and keep B.C. farms competitive,’ said Peter Cowan, President + CEO of Innovate BC, “The B.C. On-Farm Technology Adoption Program helps farmers access cutting-edge agritech that boosts efficiency and resilience, ensuring they can keep their business productive and remain key contributors to our economy and communities. Innovate BC is proud to deliver this program on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food, supporting a strong agricultural sector and a more prosperous B.C.”
“Through B.C.’s Integrated Marketplace, we are supporting our agriculture sector to adopt new technologies to make their businesses more productive and profitable, and make our economy stronger,” said Diana Gibson, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation. “Through innovation, we can support our farmers and grow not only food but also a more resilient economy.”
Part of Innovate BC’s Integrated Marketplace suite of programming, the B.C. On-Farm Technology Adoption Program is funded by the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP). The Sustainable CAP is a five-year, $3.5-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen the competitiveness, innovation and resilience of Canada’s agriculture, agrifood and agriculture-based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5-billion commitment that is cost-shared 60% federally and 40% provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories.
To learn more about Innovate BC, visit innovatebc.ca.
Additional Quotes
Sam DiMaria, Owner, Bella Rosa Orchards
“Labour is the highest operating cost for my orchard, and I knew that adopting a mobile picking platform could help address this. The B.C. On-Farm Technology Adoption Program support allowed me to bring in the platform, which is already making a difference. Emerging technologies play a crucial role in making farming more efficient and cost-effective. Farmers must be willing to learn and embrace these changes, and government support can help us transition successfully.”
A Crown Agency of British Columbia, Innovate BC works to foster innovation across the province and bolster the growth of the local economy through delivering a wide range of programs that help companies start and scale, access talent and encourage technology development, commercialization, and adoption. Innovate BC also harnesses crucial data collection and research, and works to forge strategic industry and community partnerships that create more opportunities for B.C. innovators.
The price of eggs has risen dramatically in recent years across the US. A dozen eggs cost US$1.20 (92p) in June 2019, but the price is now around US$4.90 (with a peak of US$8.17 in early March).
Some restaurants have imposed surcharges on egg-based dishes, bringing even more attention to escalating costs. And there are also shortages on supermarket shelves.
In the coming months, the US plans to import up to 100 million of this consumer staple. Government officials are approaching countries from Turkey to Brazil with enquiries about eggs for export.
Agriculture secretary Brooke Rollins, who previously said that one option to the crisis was for people to get a chicken for their backyard, suggested in the Wall Street Journal that prices are unlikely to stabilise for some months. And Donald Trump recently shared an article on Truth Social calling on the public to “shut up about egg prices”.
The main cause of the problem is an outbreak of avian flu that has resulted in over 166 million birds in the US being slaughtered. Around 98% of the nation’s chickens are produced on factory farms, which are ripe for contagion.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, the flu has already spread to several hundred dairy cattle and to one human. The USDA recently announced a US$1 billion plan to counter the problem, with funding for improved bio-security, vaccine research and compensation to farmers.
In January 2025, Donald Trump’s White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, blamed the previous administration for high egg prices. It is true that birds were slaughtered on President Joe Biden’s watch, but this was and remains standard practice at times of bird flu outbreaks and had also been the case during the Obama and first Trump administrations.
However, this points to the way the rising price of eggs has become a political touchstone. It was referred to regularly in campaign speeches and press briefings as a sign of things going wrong and a symbol of the US economy faced. Donald Trump promised to fix the price of eggs swiftly if elected, but so far the issue shows no sign of going away.
Prices are still trending up. Even when prices suddenly drop, as they have this week, the public know how much cheaper they used to be until recently, and do not tend to feel better.
There are a number of reasons why egg prices have become an important to US politicians. First, almost everyone buys eggs. So the shortage and subsequent price rise is newsworthy and affects consumers in all income brackets.
Secondly, they are a measure of broader economic vulnerabilities, so egg-related problems tend to be part of a larger story about how weak the economy is. And thirdly, egg prices are political because of Trump’s promise to bring them down.
Polls showed that the economy and inflation were key factors in voter choice on election day 2024. In February 2025, Donald Trump did an interview with NBC News in which he said he won the election on the border and groceries.
On immigration, voters often base their opinions on what they perceive to be true. For example, tough rhetoric on building a wall may equate with a sense of feeling that the president is taking strong action, whether anything tangible actually materialises or not.
With groceries, reality trumps perception. The price of eggs is printed on the box and the cost is paid directly by voters.
Donald Trump on what he’s doing on egg prices and the economy.
Then there are the egg producers. US farmers tended to overwhelmingly support Trump on election day, so it is prudent for him to feel their pain, or at least appear to. Farming areas voted for him increasingly in his three election efforts, even increasing their support for him in 2020 after trade wars and price increases which would have negatively impacted them.
Another factor that may push up egg prices is that an estimated 70% of the factory farm workforce is immigrant labour, and as many as 40% are undocumented. Should the administration’s plans for high tariffs and mass deportations come to fruition, the industry would struggle to function.
Further food price increases will be inevitable, with potential exacerbation via the funding freezes for some USDA programmes that Trump has enacted. As of March 2025, US$1 billion in cuts has been announced, the consequences of which are already being felt by farmers. The “pain now for gain later” message is a tricky political sell.
Even in the current era of international turbulence, elections are largely won on more pedestrian matters. Specifically, “kitchen-table” economics is relatable to every voter, regardless of how grand, or not, their table is.
Americans will be aware that in neighbouring Canada, egg prices have not risen dramatically and there have not been shortages. But prices in Canada have been traditionally higher than the US, this is in part at least because farming standards differ.
The US does not have high welfare standards for agricultural workers or animals, and this shortcoming needs to be addressed in order to help reduce future risk of flu, but this is likely to also raise prices.
Blaming the previous incumbent is not a durable stance for Donald Trump. As former president Harry Truman might remind him: “The buck stops here.” Right at his desk.
Clodagh Harrington does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
arlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul marched in New York City’s St. Patrick’s Day parade.
B-ROLL of the Governor during the parade can be found on YouTube here and in TV quality (h.264, mp4) format
VIDEO: The event is available to stream on YouTube here and TV quality video is available here (h.264, mp4).
AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.
PHOTOS: The Governor’s Flickr page will post photos of the event here.
A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:
Top of the morning to you. Kathleen Mary Courtney Hochul from County Kerry. Very proud to be the first Irish Governor in over 40 years. It’s a great tradition. The Irish are known to be fighters. It suits me well in this job. It’s a strength I draw upon all the time. My Irish ancestors were potato farmers and fishermen who struggled greatly. And I live the American dream because my Irish immigrant grandparents came to this country as teenagers. My grandfather found work as a migrant farm worker in South Dakota, in the wheat fields.
They became domestic servants. He later found a way to a place called Buffalo where grandpa could work at the steel plant. As a result, two generations later we have an individual, their granddaughter, who was able to rise up to the highest position as the first female governor. I’m humbled by that story. That is the story of so many New Yorkers, and that is why we welcome our immigrant community with pride and say, “You’re part of the family.”
ALBUQUERQUE – Two individuals from Shiprock have been sentenced for their roles in a violent carjacking and high-speed police chase that occurred on the Navajo Nation in 2022.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on the afternoon of May 9, 2022, Jane Doe was driving on the Navajo Nation in the area of Nenahnezad, NM. As Jane Doe approached the area, Lindsey Yazzie, 42, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, threw a large rock at her windshield, forcing her to stop. Brandon Barber, 39, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, then attacked the vehicle with a machete and hatchet, shattering windows. Yazzie attempted to pull Jane Doe out of the vehicle by her hair, and Barber then held the sharp edge of a machete against the back of Doe’s head. Barber then tried to strike Jane Doe with a hatchet.
After forcibly removing Jane Doe from her Jeep, Yazzie and Barber fled the scene in the stolen vehicle, nearly hitting Doe as they drove away. They led Navajo Nation police on a high-speed chase before abandoning the vehicle. Yazzie was found hiding nearby, while Barber was apprehended later.
Yazzie was sentenced to 46 months in prison and Barber was sentenced to 90 months in prison. Upon their release, both Barber and Yazzie will be subject to three years of supervised release.
Acting U.S. Attorney Holland S. Kastrin and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Robert James Booth II is prosecuting the case.
In this etching from Dutch theologian Lambertus Hortensius’ 1614 book ‘Van den oproer der weder-dooperen,’ Anabaptists warn the residents of Amsterdam of the coming vengeance of Christ in 1535.(Lambertus Hortensius)
Far-right politics and Christian nationalism are on the rise in North America and Europe, leading to growing concerns about what it means for human rights and democracy.
Why? Because we’ve seen before what happens when religious groups use government to force their beliefs and morality upon society.
Religion scholar Bradley Onishi writes that the Christian nationalist movement known as the “New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) is one of the most influential and dangerous Christian nationalist movements in the United States” and has become “a global phenomenon.”
This movement has reshaped its theology in ways eerily reminiscent of the prophets of the Anabaptist kingdom of Münster of the 1530s in present-day Germany. As my scholarship has examined, those religious dissenters faced polemical demonizing by religious authorities and faced violent oppression, via torture and execution.
Today’s Christian nationalists, however, have faced no such maltreatment. Yet, like persecuted dissenters of the 1530s, they claim divine authority to remake society.
The Anabaptists of Münster
A portrait of Jan van Leiden, a leader of the Münster Anabaptists, by Dutch artist Jan Muller circa 1615. (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)
The 16th-century Reformation had originally broken down the religious state of medieval Europe. However, Protestant leaders like Martin Luther and John Calvin quickly saw the advantage of having civic governments force conformity to their reforms, and punish dissent.
Derisively called Anabaptists, the small group of dissenters also refused to participate in government. For these practices they were persecuted, with hundreds horrifically tortured and executed.
Here the city’s major preacher, Bernhard Rothmann, was moving the city into the Reformed Protestant camp, rather than that of their Lutheran neighbours. When large numbers of Anabaptist refugees arrived in 1533, they won the civic election and Münster became an Anabaptist city.
The Catholic bishop of Münster had other ideas. Hiring Catholic and Lutheran troops, he laid siege to the city and things became desperate. Enraged by persecution, the Münsterite Anabaptists changed their image of Jesus from the peacemaker of the Gospels to the apocalyptic Jesus of Revelation.
The Jesus of Anabaptist Münster
Rothmann’s original theology was like what Calvin would develop for Geneva. What made the two cities distinct was the charismatic leadership of the Dutch Anabaptist prophet Jan Matthijs, who predicted that Christ would return on Easter Day, 1534, adding both urgency and confidence in applying God’s directives.
When Christ did not return on Easter 1534 and Matthijs was killed by the besiegers, his successor, Jan van Leiden, simply postponed Christ’s return to the following Easter and declared himself a semi-divine king.
He also abandoned the message of the Jesus of the Sermon on the Mount in favour of the vengeful Jesus of the Book of Revelation. Rothmann justified this in a tract which I translated as:
“It was … the intention of our hearts in our baptism, that we would suffer for Christ, whatever men did to us. But it has pleased the Lord … that now we and all Christians at this time may not only ward off the violence of the godless with the sword, but also, that he has put the sword into our hands to avenge all injustice and evil over the entire world.”
King van Leiden sent people out to spread this revolutionary message and take over other cities. This led to several militant episodes, including in Amsterdam, where in February 1535, 11 Anabaptists paraded naked through the streets proclaiming the “naked truth” of God’s anger.
Others delivered the message while waving swords. Finally, in May, 1535 about 40 Anabaptists captured Amsterdam’s city hall. All were arrested and executed. These were the actions of desperate people inspired by their prophets’ assurances of divine authority. When, however, Münster fell at the end of June 1535, the result was massive disillusionment, a return to non-violence and increased persecution.
This etching (circa 1629-1652) by Dutch artist Pieter de Hooch depicts Anabaptists walking naked through the streets of Amsterdam after being inspired to remove and burn their clothes in February 1535. (Rijksmuseum)
Divine authority to remake society?
This transformation of the Münster Anabaptists into vengeful militants reminds me of the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR). As Matthew D. Taylor has revealed, this movement sees itself as fighting a “spiritual battle” against the demonic forces opposing Trump; some participated (non-violently) in the Jan. 6, 2020 riot.
Taylor concludes with a warning that the NAR act as “spiritual warmongers, constantly expanding the arena of spiritual warfare, mapping it onto geographical territory and divisive politics in a deeply destabilizing and antidemocratic manner.” It is as if we are listening to Rothmann’s fiery sermons again.
One difference, of course, is that the NAR folk are not under persecution, despite what they might claim. Taylor describes this as “the Evangelical Persecution Neurosis.”
A charismatic approach to Christian life that affirms God speaks directly to them. They see themselves as biblical prophets who speak God’s commands which must be implemented regardless of social impact.
The Evangelical Christian belief of living in the end-times on the eve of Jesus Christ’s return for judgment. NAR preachers proclaim that while Jesus in the Gospels taught to “turn the other cheek,” they now follow the judgmental Jesus of the apocalyptical Book of Revelation and mobilize a struggle with Satan to rely on scapegoat ideology.
Derived from a group of Reformed or Calvinist theologians called “Christian Reconstructionists,” and building on Calvin’s theology of the “godly city,” they pursue a broader “dominionist” rationale to take over all of society for Christ. Believing one is living in the end-times means that society must be taken over and cleansed immediately, adding to urgency.
Believers, drawing on these three beliefs, derive an assurance they speak with God’s voice. This was the case for the Münster Anabaptists, and now similarly, for the NAR. As the example of the Münster Anabaptists suggests, we’ve seen this many times before throughout history, and it doesn’t end well.
A 1685 engraving by Dutch poet and engraver Jan Luyken depicting the 1571 burning of Anabaptist woman Anneken Hendriks from Thieleman van Braght’s 1660 book ‘The Bloody Theatre or Martyrs Mirror.’ (Allard Pierson Museum)
There have been many more recent episodes of Christian groups claiming divine authority to remake society. Like Jan van Leiden, those in the NAR or who concur with its theology have recast the Jesus of the Gospels, and U.S. President Donald Trump, in apocalyptic terms.
This gives a gloss of divine approval for Trump’s autocratic goals. As authoritarianism and Christian nationalism rises, the fusion of charismatic authority with Reformed Protestant certitude and end-times fervour continues to attract followers.
Gary K. Waite has received funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.
The rapid spread of the highly infectious avian flu virus H5N1 has reached an “unprecedented” scale, wiping out hundreds of millions of birds worldwide and increasingly spilling over into mammals, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) warned on Monday.
Briefing Member States in Rome, FAO officials called for urgent action to strengthen biosecurity, surveillance and rapid-response mechanisms to curb the outbreak.
FAO Deputy Director-General Godfrey Magwenzi stressed that the crisis threatens to have “serious impacts on food security and food supply in countries, including loss of valuable nutrition, rural jobs and income, shocks to local economies, and of course increasing costs to consumers.”
With millions relying on poultry for meat and eggs, the challenge is not only to contain the virus but also to protect food production systems.
The economic impact is also being felt worldwide. For example, egg prices reached a record high in the United States during February according to the US Consumer Price Index, with farmers forced to slaughter over 166 million birds so far in total as avian flu has spread – mostly egg-laying chickens.
So far this year more than 30 million birds in the US have been killed, according to news reports.
Coordinated response needed
FAO Deputy Director-General Beth Bechdol underlined the need for a global, coordinated response, calling H5N1 a “transboundary” threat that no country can tackle alone.
“A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. By working together, we can reduce the impact of avian influenza and protect both animal and human health – locally and globally,” Ms. Bechdol said.
Over the past four years, H5N1 has expanded to new regions, causing massive losses in domestic birds, disrupting food supplies and pushing poultry prices higher.
At least 300 new wild bird species have been affected since 2021, posing a serious threat to biodiversity.
Collective action and innovation
FAO reaffirmed its commitment to global monitoring, data sharing and technical guidance to help countries contain the virus.
Ms. Bechdol also stressed the importance of private sector engagement, particularly in developing vaccines, diagnostics and high-quality animal health services.
The briefing also included a third call for funding proposals under the Pandemic Fund, hosted by the World Bank.
Over the past two years, FAO has co-led dozens of Pandemic Fund projects aimed at strengthening disease surveillance, early warning systems and health infrastructure to prevent future outbreaks.
Julia (Boyle) Davidson, executive director, Ishtar Women’s Resources Society –
“We at Ishtar Women’s Resource Society are grateful to be moving our Ishtar Transition House to a bright and welcoming new home. The new house will enable us to support more women and their children, including a second-stage housing unit.”
Makenna Rielly, executive director, Victoria Women’s Housing Society –
“Transitional housing provides women and children fleeing intimate-partner violence time to determine their next steps. It allows them space to create safety plans, address trauma and remain within their community, minimizing disruption in their lives. In partnership with BC Housing and the community, we work to rebuild lives.”
Daylene Jones, executive director, Haven Society –
“The addition of second-stage housing to our community will make a huge difference for women and children impacted by violence. The ability to take the time needed to process, heal, and prepare for their future in a safe, supportive, and affordable living environment is essential for those leaving violence.”
Liza Scott, interim executive director, Cowichan Women Against Violence Society –
“We are pleased to announce the opening of Kw’i Lelum (‘Rise House’), providing safe, transitional housing for women, children, and families escaping violence. Rooted in cultural connection and community support, Kw’i Lelum offers a secure environment and resources to empower survivors on their path to independence.”
Kristy Rogge, executive director, Cythera Transition House Society –
“The opening of the Bernice Gehring Building is an incredible milestone and opportunity for our community. This space will be home to our second-stage program and longer-term housing for women and children. This first-of-its-kind housing project will provide a safe, stable environment, empowering families to rebuild, heal, and thrive in their community.”
Syma Nehal, program director, Nisa Foundation –
“Nisa Homes was born out of a need to support the most vulnerable and marginalized members of our community. As such, we work hard to provide a place for women to live comfortably and feel safe in a supportive home environment, explore their cultural identity, and directly connect with their community.”
Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Gary K. Waite, Professor Emeritus, Early Modern European History, University of New Brunswick
In this etching from Dutch theologian Lambertus Hortensius’ 1614 book ‘Van den oproer der weder-dooperen,’ Anabaptists warn the residents of Amsterdam of the coming vengeance of Christ in 1535.(Lambertus Hortensius)
Far-right politics and Christian nationalism are on the rise in North America and Europe, leading to growing concerns about what it means for human rights and democracy.
Why? Because we’ve seen before what happens when religious groups use government to force their beliefs and morality upon society.
Religion scholar Bradley Onishi writes that the Christian nationalist movement known as the “New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) is one of the most influential and dangerous Christian nationalist movements in the United States” and has become “a global phenomenon.”
This movement has reshaped its theology in ways eerily reminiscent of the prophets of the Anabaptist kingdom of Münster of the 1530s in present-day Germany. As my scholarship has examined, those religious dissenters faced polemical demonizing by religious authorities and faced violent oppression, via torture and execution.
Today’s Christian nationalists, however, have faced no such maltreatment. Yet, like persecuted dissenters of the 1530s, they claim divine authority to remake society.
The Anabaptists of Münster
A portrait of Jan van Leiden, a leader of the Münster Anabaptists, by Dutch artist Jan Muller circa 1615. (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)
The 16th-century Reformation had originally broken down the religious state of medieval Europe. However, Protestant leaders like Martin Luther and John Calvin quickly saw the advantage of having civic governments force conformity to their reforms, and punish dissent.
Derisively called Anabaptists, the small group of dissenters also refused to participate in government. For these practices they were persecuted, with hundreds horrifically tortured and executed.
Here the city’s major preacher, Bernhard Rothmann, was moving the city into the Reformed Protestant camp, rather than that of their Lutheran neighbours. When large numbers of Anabaptist refugees arrived in 1533, they won the civic election and Münster became an Anabaptist city.
The Catholic bishop of Münster had other ideas. Hiring Catholic and Lutheran troops, he laid siege to the city and things became desperate. Enraged by persecution, the Münsterite Anabaptists changed their image of Jesus from the peacemaker of the Gospels to the apocalyptic Jesus of Revelation.
The Jesus of Anabaptist Münster
Rothmann’s original theology was like what Calvin would develop for Geneva. What made the two cities distinct was the charismatic leadership of the Dutch Anabaptist prophet Jan Matthijs, who predicted that Christ would return on Easter Day, 1534, adding both urgency and confidence in applying God’s directives.
When Christ did not return on Easter 1534 and Matthijs was killed by the besiegers, his successor, Jan van Leiden, simply postponed Christ’s return to the following Easter and declared himself a semi-divine king.
He also abandoned the message of the Jesus of the Sermon on the Mount in favour of the vengeful Jesus of the Book of Revelation. Rothmann justified this in a tract which I translated as:
“It was … the intention of our hearts in our baptism, that we would suffer for Christ, whatever men did to us. But it has pleased the Lord … that now we and all Christians at this time may not only ward off the violence of the godless with the sword, but also, that he has put the sword into our hands to avenge all injustice and evil over the entire world.”
King van Leiden sent people out to spread this revolutionary message and take over other cities. This led to several militant episodes, including in Amsterdam, where in February 1535, 11 Anabaptists paraded naked through the streets proclaiming the “naked truth” of God’s anger.
Others delivered the message while waving swords. Finally, in May, 1535 about 40 Anabaptists captured Amsterdam’s city hall. All were arrested and executed. These were the actions of desperate people inspired by their prophets’ assurances of divine authority. When, however, Münster fell at the end of June 1535, the result was massive disillusionment, a return to non-violence and increased persecution.
This etching (circa 1629-1652) by Dutch artist Pieter de Hooch depicts Anabaptists walking naked through the streets of Amsterdam after being inspired to remove and burn their clothes in February 1535. (Rijksmuseum)
Divine authority to remake society?
This transformation of the Münster Anabaptists into vengeful militants reminds me of the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR). As Matthew D. Taylor has revealed, this movement sees itself as fighting a “spiritual battle” against the demonic forces opposing Trump; some participated (non-violently) in the Jan. 6, 2020 riot.
Taylor concludes with a warning that the NAR act as “spiritual warmongers, constantly expanding the arena of spiritual warfare, mapping it onto geographical territory and divisive politics in a deeply destabilizing and antidemocratic manner.” It is as if we are listening to Rothmann’s fiery sermons again.
One difference, of course, is that the NAR folk are not under persecution, despite what they might claim. Taylor describes this as “the Evangelical Persecution Neurosis.”
A charismatic approach to Christian life that affirms God speaks directly to them. They see themselves as biblical prophets who speak God’s commands which must be implemented regardless of social impact.
The Evangelical Christian belief of living in the end-times on the eve of Jesus Christ’s return for judgment. NAR preachers proclaim that while Jesus in the Gospels taught to “turn the other cheek,” they now follow the judgmental Jesus of the apocalyptical Book of Revelation and mobilize a struggle with Satan to rely on scapegoat ideology.
Derived from a group of Reformed or Calvinist theologians called “Christian Reconstructionists,” and building on Calvin’s theology of the “godly city,” they pursue a broader “dominionist” rationale to take over all of society for Christ. Believing one is living in the end-times means that society must be taken over and cleansed immediately, adding to urgency.
Believers, drawing on these three beliefs, derive an assurance they speak with God’s voice. This was the case for the Münster Anabaptists, and now similarly, for the NAR. As the example of the Münster Anabaptists suggests, we’ve seen this many times before throughout history, and it doesn’t end well.
A 1685 engraving by Dutch poet and engraver Jan Luyken depicting the 1571 burning of Anabaptist woman Anneken Hendriks from Thieleman van Braght’s 1660 book ‘The Bloody Theatre or Martyrs Mirror.’ (Allard Pierson Museum)
There have been many more recent episodes of Christian groups claiming divine authority to remake society. Like Jan van Leiden, those in the NAR or who concur with its theology have recast the Jesus of the Gospels, and U.S. President Donald Trump, in apocalyptic terms.
This gives a gloss of divine approval for Trump’s autocratic goals. As authoritarianism and Christian nationalism rises, the fusion of charismatic authority with Reformed Protestant certitude and end-times fervour continues to attract followers.
Gary K. Waite has received funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.
But while enthusiasm in purchasing locally made food is growing, actually identifying Canadian products in grocery stores is often confusing. Decades of free trade have deeply integrated Canada’s food supply chains with the U.S., making it difficult to determine what is actually local.
Even for Canadian-owned companies, most food products are enmeshed in global supply chains and often contain a mix of Canadian and foreign ingredients.
As food systems researchers and practitioners who have explored ways for Canadians to feed themselves in equitable and sustainable ways, it has become clear that local food systems lack the infrastructure and supply to meet increasing demand.
What’s holding local food systems back?
In collaboration with Sustain, an Ontario-wide network that promotes healthy, just and sustainable food and farming, we conducted a study to understand the policy priorities of organizations and businesses working to build local food economies in regions across the province.
Ontario already has a vibrant network of farmers, organizations and food entrepreneurs ready to meet local food demand. However, systemic challenges continue to hinder their ability to scale up production and distribution.
To better understand how to support Ontario’s food system, we surveyed over 90 organizations working in different food-related sectors.
Through this research, we developed a series of policy reports focused on supporting aspiring farmers, protecting land for food production and strengthening local food systems.
Our findings show that regulatory changes to support small- and medium-sized enterprises and key investments could remove barriers and allow local food economies to flourish.
Smaller farms struggling to survive
Our study identified several barriers holding back Ontario’s local food economy. The first set of barriers are on the supply side. A strong local food system depends on a strong network of farmers. However, many small- and medium-sized farms that supply local markets face disproportionate barriers that threaten their survival.
Compounding the issue is Canada’s looming farm succession crisis. More than 40 per cent of farmers in Canada are expected to retire by 2033, yet many aspiring farmers cannot afford to purchase farms or access start-up capital. When farmers can’t afford land, it’s often sold for non-agriculture uses.
To tackle these barriers, our study calls for provincially supported low-interest loan programs to finance down-payments, construction and equipment. Strengthening policies to protect farmland from urban sprawl, among other strategies, is also essential, as is expanding access to public land for local, ecological food production.
Processing, distribution bottlenecks
The second set of barriers we identified affect the farm-to-plate process. Small- and medium- sized farmers need better access to retail opportunities to sell fresh produce, along with the infrastructure to process raw foods into products like flour, packaged meats, jams, sauces and pickles.
This is especially evident in Ontario’s meat-processing sector, where a shortage of local abattoirs has led to long wait times.
To address these issues, our study recommends increased investment in regional food hubs. Food hubs are shared-use facilities that manage the aggregation, processing and distribution of food products from local and regional producers, giving them better access to markets.
These hubs are essential to meeting the growing demand coming for sustainable, local food from businesses, public institutions and school food programs. But they are only part of the picture.
We also identified funding opportunities that could bolster local food economies. These include expanding Ontario’s Fair Finance Fund to provide more financing options for regional food enterprises and supporting new abattoirs through the expansion of the Meat Processors Capacity Improvement Initiative.
A co-ordinated strategy is needed
Ontario manufacturers, retailers and farmers have all shown a willingness to expand local food production, but they need better support from policymakers to make it viable. There must be policies in place to support local food production and processing, remove key barriers and prioritize much-needed investments.
Across Canada, other provinces and territories face similar challenges in building strong local food networks. Most of the recommendations we heard are similarly outlined across different regions.
With consumer interest in local food on the rise, this is a critical moment for governments at all levels to improve avenues for new farmers, invest in processing and storage facilities and build local distribution networks — all essential to building a robust local food system.
Moe Garahan, a board member of Sustain Ontario, co-authored this article.
Rosie Kerr receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.
Charles Z. Levkoe receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and the Government of Ontario.
Leigh Potvin receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, the Ontario Council for Articulation and Transfer, the Government of Nova Scotia, and the University of the Arctic.
Source: United States Small Business Administration
ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Illinois of the April 15, 2025, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the Orion Parkview Apartment Fire occurring on June 17, 2014.
The disaster declaration covers the counties of Cook, DuPage, Kane, McHenry and Will in Illinois, as well as Lake County in Indiana.
Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and PNPs impacted by financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.
“SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”
The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The deadline to return economic injury applications is April 15, 2025.
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About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
Montpelier, Vt. – Governor Phil Scott, the Vermont Division for Historic Preservation (DHP) and the Vermont Advisory Council on Historic Preservation today announced the 2025 Barn Preservation Grant awardees. The program is awarding $373,026 in matching grants to 23 preservation projects across eleven Vermont counties. This year’s awardees will be celebrated next week at the Statehouse.
“These grants will help to preserve barns across Vermont, which are an important part of our agricultural heritage,” said Governor Phil Scott. “This funding will put Vermonters to work so future generations can continue to enjoy these iconic landmarks.”
“We applaud this year’s grant recipients for their commitment. The barns and farms of Vermont are important agricultural landmarks,” stated State Historic Preservation Officer Laura V. Trieschmann. “The Barn Preservation Grant Program is a great tool to support their restoration and rehabilitation, ensuring long-term stewardship of our cultural resources and landscapes.”
Grants awarded this year include projects from Arlington to Troy. Grants will support roofing repairs at the historic Phelps Farm (now Health Hero Farm) in South Hero, and a full roof replacement at Sunday Bell Farm, a dairy and diversified livestock farm in Danville. Framing repairs and drainage work will be completed with grant funds at Bagley Farm/Clearfield Farm in Granville, an organic vegetable farm. Other projects funded[MM1] include cupola and slate roof repairs of the Remington-Williamson Farm in Huntington, repair of a Hay Barn, Horse Barn and Cown Barn[MM2] at the Valley Ridge Farm in Orwell, and replacement of a section of failing concrete foundation with traditional stonework at Bread and Puppet’s main barn on their farm in Glover.
Established in 1992, the state-funded Barn Preservation Grant Program awards matching grants for improvement projects that promote Vermont’s architectural and agricultural heritage. To qualify, buildings and structures must be at least 50 years old, and listed or eligible to be listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Recipients of 2025 Barn Preservation Grants and 2025 Historic Preservation Grants (announced in February) are invited to a celebration in the Cedar Creek Room at the Statehouse on March 18 at 11:30am. Refreshments will be served.
Visit DHP’s website to learn more about grant and tax credit opportunities including Barn Preservation Grants and Historic Preservation Grants.
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[MM1]It might read better if ‘funded’ goes before ‘projects’.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
TRA to investigate HVO biodiesel imports from the USA
The TRA has initiated an anti-dumping investigation and a countervailing investigation into imports of HVO biodiesel from the United States of America.
The Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) has today, 17 March 2025, initiated an anti-dumping investigation and a countervailing investigation into imports of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) biodiesel from the United States of America.
The investigations follow an application from UK biodiesel producers concerned that the market has changed since a previous review in 2022. Recent evidence suggests that the price gap has narrowed and HVO may now be competing directly with UK-produced biodiesel.
The investigations will determine whether imports of HVO are being sold at unfairly low prices or being subsidised, and causing harm to UK industry.
To contribute to this investigation, please visit the TRA public file.
Notes to Editors:
The period of investigation for these cases will be between April 2023 and March 2024.
The Trade Remedies Authority is the UK body that investigates whether new trade remedy measures are needed to counter unfair import practices and unforeseen surges of imports.
The TRA is an arm’s length body of the Department for Business and Trade.
UK industries concerned about imports have been able to submit applications for a new trade remedy measure since January 2021. These applications are considered by the TRA to see if there are grounds for an investigation.
Agricultural Safety Week Proclaimed in Saskatchewan
To reinforce its commitment to farm safety, the Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed March 16 – 22, 2025, as Agricultural Safety Week, with a focus on protecting agricultural workers and strengthening safety practices across the province.
As a leader in the Canadian agricultural sector, Saskatchewan recognizes that farm safety is essential for the wellbeing of workers and families and the long-term success of the industry. The province is proud to support Canadian Agricultural Safety Week (CASW), a national initiative led by the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) in partnership with the Canadian Centre for Rural and Agricultural Health (CCRAH). Held every March, this initiative reminds producers to make safety a daily priority, as reflected in the week’s hashtag, #FarmSafetyEveryday.
“Farm safety goes beyond everyday routines,” Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison said. “It is also about being ready for the unexpected. This week is a great opportunity for producers to review their emergency plans and make sure their workers and families know how to respond to a crisis.”
This year’s Agricultural Safety Week focuses on the key themes of health hazards on the farm, emergency preparedness, grain safety, mental health, road and rail safety and women in agriculture. These themes stress the importance of proactive safety measures, proper training, safety resources and an inclusive workplace culture that recognizes the critical role women play in advancing farm safety.
Farming comes with unique risks, from working with heavy machinery to handling hazardous materials. Keeping farms safe requires ongoing education and access to essential safety tools to prevent accidents before they happen. To support this, the Government of Saskatchewan continues to invest in farm safety, offering training programs, and educational resources and tools like the Farm Safety Guide to help reduce workplace injuries and create a culture of safety across the sector.
“The Canadian Agricultural Safety Association is grateful for the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture’s support in promoting the importance of safety on the farm during Canadian Agricultural Safety Week,” CASA Executive Director Sandy Miller said. “This commitment helps raise awareness, reduce risks and ensure safer farms, ranches and agricultural communities. We sincerely thank the ministry for their continued efforts in advancing agricultural safety and for their dedication to the wellbeing of those who grow our food.”
Saskatchewan residents can show their support for farm safety by wearing an AgSafe ribbon, available at the ministry’s regional offices. A digital version can also be downloaded from CASA’s website. For more information on farm safety resources, including the Farm Safety Guide, visit: saskatchewan.ca/farmsafety. To learn more about Canadian Agricultural Safety Week, visit: www.casa-asca.ca.
“March 16-22 marks Canadian Agricultural Safety Week – an annual national campaign that raises awareness about the importance of farm safety.
“Canadian Agricultural Safety Week is a good time to remind those working on farms and ranches about the importance of farm health and safety measures to keep operations safe, sustainable and successful. Effective and proactive health and safety measures are an integral part of thriving farming operations.
“As farmers and ranchers prepare for the upcoming growing season, it’s important to remain diligent and focused on safety. I encourage you to take the time to renew your commitment to safety, because even one injury is too many.
“Farm employers and workers should create a plan before starting a job, to identify hazards and determine how best to deal with them. This includes developing an emergency plan and practicing it often. Investing in health and safety is an investment in your farm’s future.
“Employers, workers and the government all have a role to play in agricultural workplace safety. Let’s work together to make sure Alberta farmers and ranchers stay safe this growing season!”
The Government of Saskatchewan has renewed its ongoing collaboration with Fertilizer Canada to support education, training and expansion regarding 4R Nutrient Stewardship in the province through the signing of a new three-year Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC).
Extending the joint effort based on previous agreements, the Ministry of Agriculture will work with Fertilizer Canada to continue advancing the implementation of 4R Nutrient Stewardship in Saskatchewan. This approach to crop nutrient management and environmental stewardship follows the four “Rs” of fertilizer use: Right Source @ Right Rate, Right Time, Right Place.
“Healthy soil means healthy crops, and that is part of the reason Saskatchewan enjoys a reputation as a major global producer of quality agri-food products,” Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison said. “The 4R approach is fundamental to a responsible, sustainable agriculture industry driven by producers who set the bar for best practices, and we are very pleased to continue working with Fertilizer Canada to enhance 4R Nutrient Stewardship in our province.”
“Saskatchewan is a cornerstone of Canadian agriculture, demonstrating industry leadership through its commitment to responsible nutrient management and science-based farming practices,” Fertilizer Canada Interim President and CEO Catherine King said. “With 40 per cent of Canada’s cropland, the province is a key driver of the national economy. The Government of Saskatchewan’s commitment to the 4R Nutrient Stewardship framework reflects its dedication to balancing environmental responsibility with economic growth in agriculture, strengthening Canada’s global competitiveness. Fertilizer Canada values this strong partnership and the province’s ongoing efforts to promote best practices on the farm, ensuring the long-term success of the agricultural sector.”
Areas of collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture and Fertilizer Canada outlined in the new agreement focus on progress toward achieving shared objectives, including data and information sharing and knowledge transfer activities. The ministry has promoted 4R practices to a broad audience of producers and industry through events such as the Crop Diagnostic School and the Agronomy Research Update, as well as publications, webinars and research and demonstration initiatives. The percentage of agricultural land in Saskatchewan under a 4R stewardship plan has experienced steady growth, increasing by over 20 per cent from 2022 to 2023.
Pursuant to the agreement, the ministry and Fertilizer Canada have co-chair roles on the 4R Nutrient Stewardship Steering Committee, which includes representation from industry partners – the Canadian Association of Agri-Retailers, Canola Council of Canada, Ducks Unlimited Canada, the Prairie Certified Crop Adviser Board, and Agriculture-Applied Research Management (Agri-ARM) sites -and the University of Saskatchewan.
More information on 4R Nutrient Stewardship and sustainable farming practices in Saskatchewan is available at https://fertilizercanada.ca/our-focus/stewardship/4rs-across-canada/saskatchewan/.
March 17, 2025 – Montreal – National Film Board of Canada (NFB)
The National Film Board of Canada will be well represented at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival (June 8–14) with a diverse selection of works, including the eagerly awaited return of filmmakers Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski. Three NFB shorts are featured in this year’s prestigious official competition:
Quick Facts
Short Films – Official Competition
The Girl Who Cried Pearls (La jeune fille qui pleurait des perles) by Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski (16 min) An NFB production (Julie Roy, Marc Bertrand and Christine Noël) Press kit: mediaspace.nfb.ca/epk/the-girl-who-cried-pearls
The Girl Who Cried Pearls is a handmade, stop-motion animated short by the Oscar-nominated duo of Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski. It was previously featured at Annecy in a Work in Progress session in 2023.
This breathtaking modern fable explores greed, wonder and the power of fiction, and features a stellar creative team: Patrick Watson (original score), Olivier Calvert (sound design), Colm Feore (voice, English version) and James Hyndman (voice, French version).
A devoted sister flees with her brother, a benevolent, bread-turned zombie. A mob pursues, mouths agape. Streets twist into mazes, reason dissolves, hunger reigns. Can love defy appetite? Bread Will Walk features paper and 2D hand-drawn animation with digital collage.
In the original English version of this socialsatire and timely, absurd dark comedy, every single character is brilliantly voiced by actor Jay Baruchel. The sound design is by Olivier Calvert and the score was composed by Martin Floyd Cesar.
Hairy Legs(Poil aux jambes) by Andrea Dorfman (17 min) An NFB production (Liz Cowie and Rohan Fernando) Press kit: mediaspace.nfb.ca/epk/hairy-legs
Deciding not to shave her legs at 13 led a young Andrea Dorfman to question and ultimately defy society’s expectations.
Blending 2D animation (ink, gouache and watercolour on paper) and stop-motion, Hairy Legs captures with charm, warmth and humour the universality of girls exploring gender, curiosity and freedom.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
UK and Philippines upgrade trade relationship through inaugural talks
UK and the Philippines today hold first Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) in London.
UK and the Philippines today held inaugural Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) talks in London aimed at boosting trade and investment
JETCO aims to realise potential for UK businesses to sell more to the Philippines, one of the fastest growing economies in Asia
News follows recent win for UK beef industry after Philippine ban on UK beef was lifted in addition to the lifting of a poultry ban with both worth a combined £80m over five years.
Ministers from the UK and the Philippines met in London today [Monday 17 March] for trade talks under the first Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) meeting.
The Philippines is one of the fastest growing economies in Asia and has the second largest population in Southeast Asia, presenting huge opportunities for British businesses. The JETCO aims to upgrade our bilateral trade relationship, currently worth £2.8 billion annually.
At today’s meeting, Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security Douglas Alexander and Philippine Undersecretary Allan B. Gepty of the Department of Trade and Industry agreed to pursue closer cooperation and increased trade across sectors including infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture and technology.
They also committed to progressing work towards a government-to-government Financing Framework Partnership that will unlock up to £5 billion of potential financing from UK Export Finance (UKEF) to support the delivery of sustainable public infrastructure and improve access to UK expertise and technology in the Philippines.
Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security Douglas Alexander MP said:
Today’s talks signify an important new chapter in our trading relationship with the Philippines, one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies.
Deepening our trade with partners like the Philippines and showing that the UK is open for business in Asia is vital for this Government’s mission to deliver economic growth.
I look forward to working with the Philippines and to deliver trading opportunities that will benefit both our economies.
Agriculture is an important area for bilateral trade – the Philippines is the fourth largest export market for UK pork after the EU, US, and China.
Ministers highlighted investment opportunities in the Philippines for UK agricultural companies and promoted imports of UK meat in light of the recent removal of bans on beef and poultry exports from the UK, worth £80 million over five years.
The talks are part of the government’s mission to deliver economic growth as part of the Plan for Change.
The International Meat Trade Association (MTA) said:
MTA welcomes the inaugural JETCO between the UK & the Philippines which will deepen our trading relationship with an important partner.
We were delighted that last year the Philippines lifted the ban on UK poultry meat, as well as lifting the temporary ban on UK beef.
We hope the trade partnership between our countries can continue to grow from strength to strength.
Opportunities in offshore renewable energy featured heavily in discussions. In 2024, the UK was the largest single investor in the Philippines, driven mainly by investments in renewables.
Such opportunities for UK companies were enhanced in 2022 with the removal of foreign equity restrictions for renewable energy companies.
The JETCO also celebrated growing digital and tech trade and emphasised the UK’s commitment to supporting the Philippines in its economic development, including through the upcoming launch of an Export Handbook for Philippine businesses in the processed agrifood and fish sectors.
Background
The methodology for the valuation of market access barriers is published in a DBT analytical working paper. In some cases, estimates may have been sourced externally from industry.
Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)
Space is essential to the functioning of the UK economy. People relying on GPS for navigation, scientists who monitor climate change, and farmers who use autonomous machinery are just some of the daily users of satellite technology in the UK.
The House of Lords UK Engagement with Space Committee has been set up to consider UK space policies, the opportunities and challenges the sector faces, and how space can contribute to economic growth.
The committee wants to hear from you. Whether you’re an industry professional, an academic or a policy expert, you can get involved.
Share your views by 17 April https://committees.parliament.uk/work/8966/uk-engagement-with-space/news/205799/call-for-evidence-launched-on-the-uks-engagement-with-space/
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