Category: Farming

MIL-OSI China: East China province taps forest wealth with green finance

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

Under the dappled canopy of east China’s lush woodlands, Yang Shuiming gently inspected the Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua, a prized herb in traditional Chinese medicine, which infuses new vitality into local forestry.

He tended the plants with devotion, knowing that these leaves carry not only the promise of healing patients but also the hope of a brighter future for local farmers. To his delight, he successfully expanded his medicinal herb plantation last year, confident that his green investment had solid financial backing.

Back in 2014, Yang founded a cooperative in Guangze County, Fujian Province, aiming to grow various medicinal herbs beneath the towering forest trees. He began cultivating over 2,000 mu (about 133 hectares) of forest land. But with planting cycles stretching as long as three to five years, and little income in the early years, financial pressure soon mounted.

Waiting years for harvests and managing upfront costs no longer daunted Yang after his cooperative secured an 800,000 yuan (about 111,500 U.S. dollars) forest development loan in 2024. The infusion of capital enabled him to expand his Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua plantation by 200 mu.

“With this funding, our medicinal herb plantation expansion has progressed smoothly,” Yang said.

Yang’s story reflects how Fujian, a subtropical Chinese province known for its rich biodiversity, is pioneering green finance to unlock the value of forest resources while safeguarding the environment.

Since the launch of a dedicated forest development loan program in March 2022, Guangze’s rural credit cooperative has issued loans totaling 95.6 million yuan, according to an official of the local forestry bureau.

These funds are helping forest farmers like Yang expand sustainable operations from herb cultivation and bamboo processing to carbon sink initiatives.

In Nanping City, where Guangze is located, a growing portfolio of green financial products now supports forest-based industries. These tools, characterized by large credit lines, low interest rates, and extended loan terms, are making it easier for rural entrepreneurs to invest in long-term ecological ventures.

By bringing inclusive, flexible financing directly to the forest floor, Nanping is channeling capital into sustainable growth while advancing rural revitalization.

Fujian’s green finance transformation was no accident. As early as 2020, the province designated Sanming and Nanping as pilot zones for green finance reform and embedded sustainability goals into its broader financial development strategy. A series of guiding policies followed, encouraging banks and insurers to tailor their services to the unique needs of the forestry sector.

Home to one of China’s largest collective forest areas, Fujian boasts over 121 million mu of forest, nearly three-quarters of which remains open for further development. With a mild climate and fertile soil, the province is a natural greenhouse for forest-based industries.

By 2030, Fujian aims to develop 35 million mu of forest land into productive ecosystems, generating more than 130 billion yuan in output. The province’s ambitious plan includes 7 million mu for planting, 5 million for breeding, 16 million for harvesting and processing, and 7 million for eco-tourism and landscaping.

MIL OSI China News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Reminder of Dickson Library toilet upgrade – planned branch closure from next week

Source: Australian National Party

As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

Released 20/06/2025

Dickson Library will be temporarily closed for two weeks across June and July while the library’s public toilets are renovated to provide improved facilities for members and visitors.

To ensure the amenities are brought up to a modern standard, the toilet facilities at the front of the library branch will be given a major upgrade.

Three individual toilets, including one disability accessible toilet, will be upgraded. Works will include new toilets, sinks, tapware, tiling, door hardware, flooring, rails, repainting ceilings and new LED light fittings.

The library will be closed from Monday 23 June 2025 until Friday 4 July 2025 for the construction period.

Return chutes at the Dickson Library will also be closed for this duration.

The Dickson Library will re-open on Saturday 5 July 2025, however the new upgraded public toilet facilities will remain closed until Monday 7 July 2025 for final works and cleaning to be completed.

Should members of the public require toilet facilities, the nearest public toilets to the Dickson library are located behind the bus stop on Cowper Street.

Executive Branch Manager of Libraries ACT, Peta Harding, thanked the community for its patience and apologised for any inconvenience during construction.

“The two-week closure from Monday is required for the health and safety of staff and visitors due to the significant noise and dust anticipated.” Ms Harding said.

“Additionally, the community room at Dickson Library will also be unavailable during the closure. Libraries ACT will contact people who have room bookings, and alternative options will be offered where possible.

“It is anticipated that the renovations to the toilets at Dickson Library will be completed during this two-week period however may be subject to change,” Ms Harding said.

Library members who prefer to use an alternative library during the upgrade works can find information about library locations and opening hours on the Libraries ACT website.

The community can also stay up to date on these works and any changes to services by visiting the Libraries ACT website www.library.act.gov.au or by following Libraries ACT on Facebook @LibrariesACT.

– Statement ends –

ACT Transport Canberra and City Services Directorate | Media Releases

Media Contacts

«ACT Government Media Releases | «Directorate Media Releases

MIL OSI News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – From natural resources to natural capital: Africa charts path to prosperity in Nairobi

Source: Global Landscapes Forum (GLF)

GLF Africa 2025 gathered nearly 2,500 people online and in Nairobi, Kenya, to explore and learn from experts how communities and ecosystems across the continent can thrive under a nature economy.

Nairobi, Kenya (19 June 2025) – Today, GLF Africa 2025: Innovate, Restore, Prosper – hosted by the Global Landscapes Forum (GLF) and CIFOR-ICRAF – brought together nearly 2,500 participants from 118 countries online and in Nairobi, Kenya, to explore how local communities are spearheading a green transition across Africa.

The Forum, which has reached over 9 million people on social media, convened African and global innovators, scientists, investors and community leaders to raise their voices, share insights and spotlight how grassroots action is leading the way – from ecosystem restoration, land rights and diverse knowledge systems to green jobs, natural capital and AI.

Here’s what experts shared at GLF Africa 2025:

Innovation and AI for people and planet

“When raw data is given meaning, it becomes information. When information is put into context, it becomes knowledge. And when knowledge becomes actionable and applied, only then does it become wisdom. That is the work we all need to do – to move into wisdom territory. To turn data into gold. Africa already has immense natural capital. It’s our responsibility to bring intelligence, meaning and context towards a nature economy.” – Éliane Ubalijoro, CEO, CIFOR-ICRAF.

“AI technology is going to help us only when we include the farmer not just as the end user but as a co-creator in our solutions. … Leveraging what people know is one way we can find better fitting solutions for them.” – Esther Maina, Geospatial Developer, Kenya Space Agency.

“Data and AI play a pivotal role in unlocking some of those insights that we’ve never had access to before, bringing a level of transparency that can restore trust in our ecosystem. Data creates transparency, transparency creates trust, and trust accelerates investments. It will only work, though, if we really start treating our natural capital as a core economic driver … with the potential to unlock trillions in capital.” – Kate Kallot, Founder & CEO, Amini AI

Restoring and reclaiming Africa’s landscapes

“Land rights are the foundation for Africa’s nature economy. How can we make sure that Africa’s relationship with the West or the private sector is based on a win-win situation? We all know that the West has the technology, but we have the resources, so that should put Africa in a very powerful bargaining position.” – Solange Bandiaky-Badji, President, Rights and Resources Group (RRG), Coordinator, Rights and Resources Initiative (RRI)

“Indigenous people, particularly those on drylands – they have been living their life for generations, overcoming challenges and uncertainties just with the simple knowledge of understanding the environment.” – Joshua Laizer, Co-founder, Tanzania Conservation and Community Empowerment Initiative (TACCEI) and GLFx Maasai Steppe

“We need to create enabling ecosystems that support people to do more restoration and tap into nature-based economies, because policies without people is just poetry.” – Melyn Abisa, INUKA Project coordinator, Youth4Nature

Prosperity through working with nature

“We [need to] give value to our biomass … that helps keep natural capital in the right state. The current model that we operate in the restoration community is only capturing and valuing 6–10% of the biomass. It’s largely based around commodities and non-timber forest products: coffee, cashew, macadamia, timber. We export everything raw.” – Peter Minang, Director for Africa, CIFOR-ICRAF.

“We need a shift from aid to investment-centered development. Africa is home to $6.5 trillion in natural resources, a population that is about to reach 2.5 billion by 2050 and 60% of the world’s renewable energy potential. This is not a charity case. This is a compelling investment case that the world cannot afford to ignore.” – Sellah Bogonko, Co-Founder and CEO, Jacob’s Ladder Africa.

“Africa’s nature economy has the potential to sustain ourselves, so there’s no need for us to heavily rely on foreign aid. We are our own resource” – Steve Misati, Director at Youth Pawa and 2024 Ocean Restoration Steward.

FIGURES

Over 60% of Africa’s economy relies on its natural capital – from forests and biodiversity to water and land.
Investing in restoration and sustainable landscape practices could deliver major ecological, social and financial returns, with up to 600% returns on investment.
Up to 70% of communities in Sub-Saharan Africa rely on forests and woodlands for their livelihoods.
65% of Africa’s productive landscapes are degraded, driven largely by the climate crisis, insecure land rights and underfunded restoration initiatives.
Africa’s demands for food, shelter and jobs will increase as its population is expected to grow from 1.5 billion to 2.5 billion by 2050.

Rewatch GLF Africa 2025 for free and learn first-hand what all experts shared: bit.ly/GLFAfrica2025.

ABOUT THE GLF

The Global Landscapes Forum (GLF) is the world’s largest knowledge-led platform on integrated land use, connecting people with a shared vision to create productive, profitable, equitable and resilient landscapes. It is led by the Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF), in collaboration with its co-founders UNEP and the World Bank, and its charter members. Learn more at www.globallandscapesforum.org.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Bribe or community benefit? Sweeteners smoothing the way for renewables projects need to be done right
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hugh Breakey, Deputy Director, Institute for Ethics, Governance & Law, Griffith University

Louise Beaumont/Getty

When a renewable energy developer announces a new project, there’s one big question mark – how will nearby communities react?

Community pushback has scuttled many renewables projects. Sometimes, communities are angry landowners hosting infrastructure will be paid, but neighbours and those further afield may not.

As a result, renewable projects often involve schemes where the developer gives funding or resources to local community initiatives.

Australia has dozens of these schemes, with many more to come as the clean energy transition accelerates. The Clean Energy Council estimates developers contribute about A$1,050 to communities for every megawatt of wind and about $850 for solar.

The problem is, research shows poorly designed schemes can look a lot like bribery. Developers dish out money to gain community acceptance. Our new research points to a clear solution: design these schemes carefully.

How do these schemes work?

Renewable developers usually structure community-benefit schemes in one of three ways:
- community funds, where a developer offers a one-time or ongoing payment for local infrastructure such as roads, services or community projects
- in-kind benefits, such as investment in local sports fields or tourism initiatives
- local ownership models, such as offering community members preferential access to shares in the company or a community co-ownership model of the project.
In Australia, a number of community schemes are already established or planned.

More are on their way. The Queensland government has introduced laws which require wind and solar farm developers enter into community benefit agreements.

Worldwide, offshore wind farms have for many years involved community benefit sharing. Australia is very likely to follow suit as this industry emerges.

Developers will sometimes set up more targeted neighbour payment schemes where funding is given to nearby landowners.

What are they for?

There are three reasons why benefit sharing can be a good idea overall. They are:

1. Impact on locals: solar farms take up large areas of land, while wind farms on land or sea draw the eye and can compete with other uses of the space. Community benefit schemes can help counterbalance these impacts.

2. Benefits are centralised: solar, wind and battery developments generate significant economic value. But this is largely captured by the developer. Benefit schemes can make residents feel the deal is fairer.

3. Acceptance: change of any kind is often hard. Offering incentives to towns and communities can make the change easier.

Payments to communities hosting renewable projects can look like bribes if not done carefully.
myphotobank.com.au/Shutterstock

Straying into bribery?

The definition of a bribe is a benefit which influences or intends to influence a person to violate their role-based obligations. Offering money to a police officer to avoid losing your licence would count as a bribe.

Community benefit sharing isn’t a bribe in a strict legal sense. But the payments can resemble bribes if they influence community members to accept the new development. Improving community acceptance is often a central goal of such schemes.

The accusation is common. In the United Kingdom, researchers observe these schemes are regularly seen:

as an attempt by local developers to ‘bribe’ local communities to ‘buy’ support for their wind farm development.

Community members may decry a scheme as a “paltry bribe” or “shut up candy”. Some insist their “principles are not for sale”.

Developers recognise this too. As one says:

you don’t just turn up in a community and say, don’t worry, we’ll buy you a new rugby pitch […] because it really does look like you’re trying to buy them off.

But do local communities have obligations which accepting a renewables project might violate?

As part of a democracy, residents have civic obligations to make public-spirited decisions, evaluating policies and developments based not on self-interest but in a principled way.

This is why it’s illegal to pay someone to vote for a particular candidate in an election, for instance.

Offering money for community initiatives isn’t intrinsically wrong. As a community objector to a wind farm proposal put it:

Of course it is a relevant planning consideration if a wind power company is offering to pour significant sums of money into a community for the life of a wind farm […] Why should that not be recognised as a good thing?

But any economic boon to a town must be considered alongside other important concerns, rather than wiping them away.

If these schemes operate by influencing citizens to ignore their civic duties, that’s intrinsically wrong. Worse still, it risks a backlash from offended community members.

In the worst cases, benefit sharing operates as a pay-off, where uneasy communities are given money to reduce their resistance.

Offshore wind farm developers overseas often set up community benefit schemes.
Tupungato/Shutterstock

Achieving fairness, avoiding bribery

The solutions are straightfoward: design these schemes strategically so they are fair and avoid eroding civic obligations. Here are four aims:

1. Minimise self-interest. Schemes should avoid large up-front payments and focus on in-kind benefits.

2. Respect the community. Employ and contract local staff, keep the community informed and respond transparently to complaints.

3. Encourage community involvement. Big renewable projects should stack up on energy, environmental, economic and community grounds. Robust and genuine community consultation should be used when designing any benefit scheme.

4. Ensure integrity. Development and implementation of any scheme should be genuine, transparent and accountable.

Getting it right

As climate change intensifies, Australia’s clean energy transition has a clear moral urgency. But this cannot be done by steamrolling local residents or buying them off with cash for community projects.

When community benefit schemes are sensibly designed with local input, it will boost both climate action and civic legitimacy.

Hugh Breakey receives funding from the Blue Economy CRC. This research was funded through the project ‘Pre-conditions for the Development of Offshore Wind Energy in Australia’ by the Blue Economy Cooperative Research Centre.

Charles Sampford receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the Professional Services Council and the Blue Economy CRC.

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

– ref. Bribe or community benefit? Sweeteners smoothing the way for renewables projects need to be done right – https://theconversation.com/bribe-or-community-benefit-sweeteners-smoothing-the-way-for-renewables-projects-need-to-be-done-right-258903
MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –
June 20, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Bribe or community benefit? Sweeteners smoothing the way for renewables projects need to be done right
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hugh Breakey, Deputy Director, Institute for Ethics, Governance & Law, Griffith University

Louise Beaumont/Getty

When a renewable energy developer announces a new project, there’s one big question mark – how will nearby communities react?

Community pushback has scuttled many renewables projects. Sometimes, communities are angry landowners hosting infrastructure will be paid, but neighbours and those further afield may not.

As a result, renewable projects often involve schemes where the developer gives funding or resources to local community initiatives.

Australia has dozens of these schemes, with many more to come as the clean energy transition accelerates. The Clean Energy Council estimates developers contribute about A$1,050 to communities for every megawatt of wind and about $850 for solar.

The problem is, research shows poorly designed schemes can look a lot like bribery. Developers dish out money to gain community acceptance. Our new research points to a clear solution: design these schemes carefully.

How do these schemes work?

Renewable developers usually structure community-benefit schemes in one of three ways:
- community funds, where a developer offers a one-time or ongoing payment for local infrastructure such as roads, services or community projects
- in-kind benefits, such as investment in local sports fields or tourism initiatives
- local ownership models, such as offering community members preferential access to shares in the company or a community co-ownership model of the project.
In Australia, a number of community schemes are already established or planned.

More are on their way. The Queensland government has introduced laws which require wind and solar farm developers enter into community benefit agreements.

Worldwide, offshore wind farms have for many years involved community benefit sharing. Australia is very likely to follow suit as this industry emerges.

Developers will sometimes set up more targeted neighbour payment schemes where funding is given to nearby landowners.

What are they for?

There are three reasons why benefit sharing can be a good idea overall. They are:

1. Impact on locals: solar farms take up large areas of land, while wind farms on land or sea draw the eye and can compete with other uses of the space. Community benefit schemes can help counterbalance these impacts.

2. Benefits are centralised: solar, wind and battery developments generate significant economic value. But this is largely captured by the developer. Benefit schemes can make residents feel the deal is fairer.

3. Acceptance: change of any kind is often hard. Offering incentives to towns and communities can make the change easier.

Payments to communities hosting renewable projects can look like bribes if not done carefully.
myphotobank.com.au/Shutterstock

Straying into bribery?

The definition of a bribe is a benefit which influences or intends to influence a person to violate their role-based obligations. Offering money to a police officer to avoid losing your licence would count as a bribe.

Community benefit sharing isn’t a bribe in a strict legal sense. But the payments can resemble bribes if they influence community members to accept the new development. Improving community acceptance is often a central goal of such schemes.

The accusation is common. In the United Kingdom, researchers observe these schemes are regularly seen:

as an attempt by local developers to ‘bribe’ local communities to ‘buy’ support for their wind farm development.

Community members may decry a scheme as a “paltry bribe” or “shut up candy”. Some insist their “principles are not for sale”.

Developers recognise this too. As one says:

you don’t just turn up in a community and say, don’t worry, we’ll buy you a new rugby pitch […] because it really does look like you’re trying to buy them off.

But do local communities have obligations which accepting a renewables project might violate?

As part of a democracy, residents have civic obligations to make public-spirited decisions, evaluating policies and developments based not on self-interest but in a principled way.

This is why it’s illegal to pay someone to vote for a particular candidate in an election, for instance.

Offering money for community initiatives isn’t intrinsically wrong. As a community objector to a wind farm proposal put it:

Of course it is a relevant planning consideration if a wind power company is offering to pour significant sums of money into a community for the life of a wind farm […] Why should that not be recognised as a good thing?

But any economic boon to a town must be considered alongside other important concerns, rather than wiping them away.

If these schemes operate by influencing citizens to ignore their civic duties, that’s intrinsically wrong. Worse still, it risks a backlash from offended community members.

In the worst cases, benefit sharing operates as a pay-off, where uneasy communities are given money to reduce their resistance.

Offshore wind farm developers overseas often set up community benefit schemes.
Tupungato/Shutterstock

Achieving fairness, avoiding bribery

The solutions are straightfoward: design these schemes strategically so they are fair and avoid eroding civic obligations. Here are four aims:

1. Minimise self-interest. Schemes should avoid large up-front payments and focus on in-kind benefits.

2. Respect the community. Employ and contract local staff, keep the community informed and respond transparently to complaints.

3. Encourage community involvement. Big renewable projects should stack up on energy, environmental, economic and community grounds. Robust and genuine community consultation should be used when designing any benefit scheme.

4. Ensure integrity. Development and implementation of any scheme should be genuine, transparent and accountable.

Getting it right

As climate change intensifies, Australia’s clean energy transition has a clear moral urgency. But this cannot be done by steamrolling local residents or buying them off with cash for community projects.

When community benefit schemes are sensibly designed with local input, it will boost both climate action and civic legitimacy.

Hugh Breakey receives funding from the Blue Economy CRC. This research was funded through the project ‘Pre-conditions for the Development of Offshore Wind Energy in Australia’ by the Blue Economy Cooperative Research Centre.

Charles Sampford receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the Professional Services Council and the Blue Economy CRC.

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

– ref. Bribe or community benefit? Sweeteners smoothing the way for renewables projects need to be done right – https://theconversation.com/bribe-or-community-benefit-sweeteners-smoothing-the-way-for-renewables-projects-need-to-be-done-right-258903
MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –
June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senators Marshall & Baldwin Introduce Bill to Strengthen Rail Supply & Improve Freight Rail Services for American Farmers & Businesses

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
Washington – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) joined Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisconsin) in reintroducing the Reliable Rail Service Act, which addresses unreliable service and high rail shipping costs for farmers and manufacturers and aims to strengthen our rail supply chains. It ensures major freight railroads deliver reliable service at reasonable rates, enabling American businesses to get products to market more efficiently.
“Kansas’s farmers and ranchers depend upon reliable transport of their world-class goods to the rest of the country, and Class 1 railroads are not meeting expectations – this is a disservice to hard-working Kansans,” said Senator Marshall. “This bill lays out reasonable requirements for rail carriers to meet these important obligations, and I look forward to working with Senator Baldwin on getting this to the finish line.”
“Across the Badger State, our farmers, small businesses, and manufacturers rely on rail service to get their products to market and make ends meet,” said Senator Baldwin. “But when rail service is unreliable, it puts their livelihoods on the line, disrupts supply chains, and drives up costs for hardworking Wisconsin families. That’s why I am proud to work with my Republican colleague to once again introduce our Reliable Rail Service Act and help level the playing field for Wisconsin workers, grow our Made in Wisconsin economy, and keep costs down for consumers.”
The Reliable Rail Service Act is supported by members of the agricultural industry, labor organizations, energy producers, and manufacturers who know firsthand how poor service, significant disruptions, and sky-high prices are impacting their businesses and prices for consumers.
Click here to read the full text of the bill.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senators Marshall & Baldwin Introduce Bill to Strengthen Rail Supply & Improve Freight Rail Services for American Farmers & Businesses

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

Washington – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) joined Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisconsin) in reintroducing the Reliable Rail Service Act, which addresses unreliable service and high rail shipping costs for farmers and manufacturers and aims to strengthen our rail supply chains. It ensures major freight railroads deliver reliable service at reasonable rates, enabling American businesses to get products to market more efficiently.
“Kansas’s farmers and ranchers depend upon reliable transport of their world-class goods to the rest of the country, and Class 1 railroads are not meeting expectations – this is a disservice to hard-working Kansans,” said Senator Marshall. “This bill lays out reasonable requirements for rail carriers to meet these important obligations, and I look forward to working with Senator Baldwin on getting this to the finish line.”
“Across the Badger State, our farmers, small businesses, and manufacturers rely on rail service to get their products to market and make ends meet,” said Senator Baldwin. “But when rail service is unreliable, it puts their livelihoods on the line, disrupts supply chains, and drives up costs for hardworking Wisconsin families. That’s why I am proud to work with my Republican colleague to once again introduce our Reliable Rail Service Act and help level the playing field for Wisconsin workers, grow our Made in Wisconsin economy, and keep costs down for consumers.”
The Reliable Rail Service Act is supported by members of the agricultural industry, labor organizations, energy producers, and manufacturers who know firsthand how poor service, significant disruptions, and sky-high prices are impacting their businesses and prices for consumers.
Click here to read the full text of the bill.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senators Marshall & Baldwin Introduce Bill to Strengthen Rail Supply & Improve Freight Rail Services for American Farmers & Businesses

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

Washington – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) joined Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisconsin) in reintroducing the Reliable Rail Service Act, which addresses unreliable service and high rail shipping costs for farmers and manufacturers and aims to strengthen our rail supply chains. It ensures major freight railroads deliver reliable service at reasonable rates, enabling American businesses to get products to market more efficiently.
“Kansas’s farmers and ranchers depend upon reliable transport of their world-class goods to the rest of the country, and Class 1 railroads are not meeting expectations – this is a disservice to hard-working Kansans,” said Senator Marshall. “This bill lays out reasonable requirements for rail carriers to meet these important obligations, and I look forward to working with Senator Baldwin on getting this to the finish line.”
“Across the Badger State, our farmers, small businesses, and manufacturers rely on rail service to get their products to market and make ends meet,” said Senator Baldwin. “But when rail service is unreliable, it puts their livelihoods on the line, disrupts supply chains, and drives up costs for hardworking Wisconsin families. That’s why I am proud to work with my Republican colleague to once again introduce our Reliable Rail Service Act and help level the playing field for Wisconsin workers, grow our Made in Wisconsin economy, and keep costs down for consumers.”
The Reliable Rail Service Act is supported by members of the agricultural industry, labor organizations, energy producers, and manufacturers who know firsthand how poor service, significant disruptions, and sky-high prices are impacting their businesses and prices for consumers.
Click here to read the full text of the bill.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Regulation (EU) 2020/741 on minimum requirements for water reuse – E-002381/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002381/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Christine Schneider (PPE)

Numerous reports and observations from various Member States, in particular Germany, indicate that the practical implementation of Regulation (EU) 2020/741 has caused significant difficulties. Many farmers and municipalities lose access to treated waste water because many smaller projects are unable to meet the technical and administrative requirements of the Regulation. This runs counter to the Regulation’s objective of promoting water reuse and addressing water scarcity.

1.How does the Commission assess the practical implementation of Regulation (EU) 2020/741, in particular as regards access to treated waste water for irrigation in agriculture in the Member States, and is the Commission aware that, as a result of the above-mentioned requirements, smaller farms and municipalities in particular have lost access to treated waste water and are instead having to increasingly resort to using valuable drinking water for irrigation?

2.How does the Commission view the criticism that the current requirements of the Regulation could lead to a reduction in water reuse in practice, thus undermining the very objective of the Regulation?

3.Does the Commission intend to evaluate Regulation (EU) 2020/741 in the light of real-world practical experience and feedback so far and, if necessary, propose adjustments to facilitate water reuse?

Submitted: 12.6.2025
Last updated: 19 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Fair distribution of profits to farmers in Europe – E-001690/2025(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
The EU agri-food chain observatory (AFCO) was launched in 2024 as one of the actions that aim to strengthen the position of farmers in the food supply chain and reinforce trust between actors.

As set out in its Terms of Reference[1], the purpose of AFCO is to advise the Commission and to exchange information and discuss with a view to establishing a common diagnosis of the situation across markets, and bring increased transparency on prices, cost structure, margin distribution and added value in the supply chain, while respecting confidentiality and competition rules.

Market observatories, such as AFCO, provide advice and expertise and do not engage in policy discussions. In line with its Terms of Reference, by assessing and taking stock of the situation within the supply chain, the group provides inputs to inform policy responses by the Commission and other policy-makers.

Members of the AFCO exchange information based on available evidence and facts. These include existing data collected by the Commission, such as the Directorate General for Agriculture and Rural Development and Eurostat, as well as information made available by members in full respect of confidentiality and competition rules.

The Commission assesses the quality of data. Potential limitations in their use, comparability or interpretation are taken into account and clearly communicated when data are disseminated.

The AFCO has convened three times since its creation. Its work currently focuses on identifying relevant data sources and data gaps, with a view to enabling the group to monitor the agri-food supply chain.

[1] https://ec.europa.eu/transparency/expert-groups-register/screen/expert-groups/consult?lang=en&groupID=3949.
Last updated: 19 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Banking: Release of STDF Annual Report 2024 — Driving Change as Pathways to Trading Safely
Source: World Trade Organization

The Report covers a milestone year for the STDF. In addition to celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024, this year’s report highlights key achievements, including progress in strengthening SPS capacity in developing countries as well as mainstreaming gender and environmental issues. The report also includes an external evaluation of the STDF’s performance.

Key results

In 2024, the STDF made significant progress in enhancing SPS measures across 11 countries and supporting SPS legislative, regulatory and policy changes in 19 countries, in addition to catalysing new work on public-private partnerships, digitalization and SPS e-certification, and mainstreaming cross-cutting issues.

Highlights include:
- In India, the STDF’s spices project improved safety and quality, enabling over 80% of tested spices to meet Codex Alimentarius Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for increased access to premium markets.
- In Guinea, an STDF project strengthened the country’s phytosanitary system, securing mango export approval for the EU market and increasing potato production by 112%, which opened new opportunities for agricultural exports to regional and international markets.
- In 2024, the STDF continued addressing gender challenges in line with its Gender Action Plan. Gender analyses in over 10 countries identified gender needs and opportunities, which is enhancing attention to gender equality in SPS capacity development.
- The STDF published an assessment on attention to the environment, biodiversity and climate resilience in its work. The assessment recognized that two-thirds of project applications explicitly address factors related to the environment and identified win-win opportunities to strengthen environment mainstreaming, while maintaining the STDF’s focus on SPS capacity and safe trade.
Looking back and planning for the future

An external evaluation (May 2024) confirmed the STDF’s continued relevance, and the high satisfaction of stakeholders with the partnership’s progress and results. It also contributed to the development of the STDF’s new Strategy for 2025-2030, which was created in 2024 with founding partners, donors, developing country experts and others involved in the STDF’s work.

“The STDF has been at the forefront of creating pathways to ensure that trade is both safe and sustainable, contributing to economic growth and food security across regions,” said Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, WTO Director-General. “Over the past two decades, the STDF’s support has enabled small-scale producers in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean to meet standards and expand exports, generating higher earnings, creating jobs, and driving inclusive development.”

As the landscape of aid evolves, the STDF remains committed to helping developing countries benefit from trade through innovative SPS solutions, ensuring that trade remains inclusive and beneficial for all.

The STDF Annual Report can be viewed and downloaded here.

The STDF is a global multi-stakeholder partnership facilitating safe and inclusive trade, established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the World Bank Group, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the WTO, which houses and manages the partnership. The STDF responds to evolving sanitary and phytosanitary needs, drives inclusive trade, and contributes to sustainable economic growth, poverty reduction, food security and climate resilience, in support of the United Nations’ Global Goals.

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MIL OSI Global Banks –
June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Eritrea: Commemoration of World Drought and Desertification Day

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

Download logo

World Drought and Desertification Day was commemorated at the national level at Embasoira Hotel, Asmara, on 17 June under the theme “Restore the Land – Unlock the Opportunity.” The event, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, was attended by experts from the Ministries of Agriculture and Land, Water and Environment, the Forestry and Wildlife Authority, Higher Education Institutions, stakeholders, national associations, and farmers.

In his keynote address, Mr. Semere Amlesom, Director General of Agricultural Extension at the Ministry of Agriculture, highlighted the Eritrean Government’s commitment to combating drought and desertification and emphasized the need for collective action to restore degraded land. He further noted that drought and desertification are among the main causes of biodiversity loss, poverty, forced migration, and conflict, and that restoring the land is essential to addressing these issues and reversing their consequences.

The event featured presentations on various topics, including Eritrea’s commitment and experience in combating drought, land degradation, and desertification; land use change and its impact on poverty and livelihoods; conservation and sustainable land-use management practices; agroforestry systems for restoring land; environmental impact assessments of agricultural farms; and the role of date palms in restoring degraded land, among other relevant subjects.

The participants, emphasizing the importance of continued efforts to address drought and desertification, called on stakeholders to work in partnership to achieve the intended goals. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, it is essential to accelerate the implementation of sustainable land-use practices and conservation measures.

– on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

MIL OSI Africa –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish Government must act now on free bus travel for asylum seekers rollout

Source: Scottish Greens

19 Jun 2025 Transport

Free bus travel isn’t just practical – it’s a statement of who we are and the kind of country we want to be.

More in Transport

There must be no more delays by the Scottish Government to finally deliver free bus travel for people seeking asylum, say the Scottish Greens.

Scottish Greens MSP Mark Ruskell, the party spokesperson for transport, says that while the Government has repeatedly agreed the policy is the right thing to do, and the commitment made, it still hasn’t been delivered.

Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, Jim Fairlie recently wrote to Mark Ruskell confirming the Scottish Government will provide £2 million funding for the pilot scheme, however only with a vague deadline for implementation later this year.

Today in Parliament, Mark questioned the Minister for Equalities Kaukab Stewart on progress, however she was unable to provide a clear date for when the pilot would be delivered.

Advocates, campaigners, and refugee support organisations have long called for more tangible measures to support the wellbeing and integration of people seeking asylum – with free bus travel seen as a key and long-overdue step.

The Scottish Government first committed to expanding free bus travel to people seeking asylum in 2023. However, they scrapped the proposal in 2024 – only to be forced to bring it back as part of the Scottish Budget following negotiations with the Scottish Greens.

With this year’s Refugee Week highlighting compassion, solidarity, and community, Mark said there is no better time to act than now.

Mark said:

“It has been 2 years since the Scottish Government finally promised to provide free bus travel to people seeking asylum in Scotland. But committing to something is not the same as delivering it.

“People seeking asylum are banned from working and forced to survive on as little as £8 a day from the UK Government – an amount that barely covers a day ticket on many buses across Scotland.

“Imagine trying to survive, support your family, attend vital appointments, or go to school – all on just £8 a day. Most of us spend more than that on a sandwich or a coffee. Expecting people to build a new life in Scotland with no way to get around is simply unjust.

“Every day of delay to this scheme is another day that people in need go without access to essentials. People stuck in an asylum system that forces them into poverty cannot wait another 2 years for this. The Scottish Government needs to give a clear timeline for when this scheme is finally going to be rolled out.

“If we truly believe in a Scotland that welcomes refugees, that supports those fleeing war and persecution, then we must back that up with real support. Delivering free bus travel isn’t just practical – it’s a statement of who we are and the kind of country we want to be.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Crop Report for the Period June 10 to June 16, 2025

Source: Government of Canada regional news

Released on June 19, 2025

With seeding complete in the province, producers are busy with in-field spraying and other activities such as hauling grain. A good general rain is needed to help push crop development and ensure the crop doesn’t begin to deteriorate in condition.

There were some isolated showers over the past week with some areas seeing heavy rain and hail. While the moisture was welcome, the intensity of these storms left some crops damaged. The most rainfall reported over the week was in the Meadow Lake area which received 64 millimeters (mm). Other heavy rainfall amounts were reported in the Coleville area with 46 mm, the Bruno area with 40 mm and the Prince Albert area with 31 mm. Many other areas of the province received small spotty rains ranging between two to 10 mm, while others were fortunate enough to get upwards of 20 to 30 mm over the week.

Even with the rainfall over the past week, topsoil moisture conditions continue to decline provincially. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as one per cent surplus, 40 per cent adequate, 45 per cent short and 14 per cent very short. Hay land topsoil moisture is rated as 34 per cent adequate, 41 per cent short and 25 per cent very short. Pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 27 per cent adequate, 42 per cent short and 31 per cent very short.

Most crops are reported as being normal in their development for this time of year. However, many producers are reporting that without rain soon crop development will be delayed on later seeded crops and hastened for the more advanced crops as they respond to the drier conditions. Spring cereals are rated as 13 per cent ahead, 72 per cent normal and 15 per cent behind. Oilseeds are rated as five per cent ahead, 68 per cent normal and 27 per cent behind. Finally, pulse crops are 14 per cent ahead, 77 per cent normal and nine per cent behind. Crop conditions across the province are mainly rated as fair to good. Producers are reporting that crop conditions will quickly deteriorate if rain is not received soon.

Dry conditions coupled with windy days continues to be the largest source of crop damage and severity ranges from minor to moderate depending on the region. There were many scattered hail events this past week with damage ranging from minor to severe. Fall seeded crops in later development stages were heavily impacted and are unlikely to recover, but less advanced crops should be able to bounce back. The heavy rains resulted in some flooding which has left crops washed out or sitting in standing water. Pressure from grasshoppers and flea beetles remains rated as minor to moderate and producers are actively working to control these pests to minimize damage.

Producers will continue to actively scout and apply crop protection products to ensure pest pressures are managed while conducting other farming activities. Cattle producers are frequently evaluating pasture conditions and hauling water and feed as necessary. Producers and the public are reminded that conditions remain dry across the province and every precaution should be taken to limit the risk of fires.

For many producers, this is still a stressful time of year and producers are encouraged to take safety precautions in all the work they do. The Farm Stress Line can help by providing support for producers toll free at 1-800-667-4442.

A complete, printable version of the Crop Report is available online: download Crop Report.

Follow the 2025 Crop Report on X/Twitter at @SKAgriculture.

-30-

For more information, contact:

MIL OSI Canada News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Are Chinese investors grabbing Zambian land? Study finds that’s a myth

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Yuezhou Yang, Research Fellow, London School of Economics and Political Science

Media coverage of Chinese land investments in African agriculture often reinforces narratives of a “weak African state” and the “Chinese land grab”, highlighting power imbalances between the actors involved in these land deals.

Are Chinese actors grabbing land in Africa and jeopardising local people’s land rights and food security?

China’s “Agriculture Going Out” policy, launched in 2007 as part of its broader “Going Out” strategy, was reinforced by the Belt and Road Initiative from 2013. Backed by these policies, Chinese foreign direct investment in Africa rose from US$74.81 million in 2003 to US$4.99 billion in 2021. By 2020, US$1.67 billion was invested in African agriculture, with nearly two-thirds targeting cash crop cultivation. Zambia ranked among the top ten African countries receiving Chinese foreign direct investment and loans.

My research on Zambian agriculture finds that Chinese land grabbing is a myth. Instead, Chinese investors have preferred different investment models according to the specific rules of land access, transfer and control of three land tenure systems in Zambia.

What ties the three types of Chinese agricultural investments together is this: land institutions matter. Whether it’s central government rules or traditional authority, these systems shape how foreign investment happens and what impact it has.

Read more:
Foreign agriculture investments don’t always threaten food security: the case of Madagascar

Each of the three models raises new opportunities and challenges for rural development and land governance. These findings matter because they offer insights into the future of land rights, livelihoods and state-building in African countries.

Not all land is the same

After independence, all land in Zambia was vested in the president, held in trust for the people. Today, the country still operates under a dual land system, as outlined in the 1995 Lands Act. State land, managed by the central government, includes both private and government leaseholds. Customary land, on the other hand, remains under the authority of traditional chiefs. The exact proportion of state and customary land in Zambia is contested, with estimates of customary land ranging widely from 94% to 54%.

This tenure distinction is significant because each type of land is governed by different rules regarding foreign access and ownership, which shape how foreign investors choose their investment models.

Over four months of fieldwork in Zambia, I gathered data on 50 Chinese agricultural projects (41 remained active) through 96 qualitative interviews. These projects were spread across three types of land tenure: private leasehold (37), government leasehold (1), and customary land (3).

Model 1: Commercial farm on private land

My fieldwork data showed that the majority of Chinese agricultural investments in Zambia are located on private leasehold land, typically following the commercial farm model. This type of land functions much like private property, held under 99-year leases that can be bought, sold or transferred. Investors use it for large-scale farming operations, such as maize, soybean and wheat production.

Even in these seemingly privatised spaces, however, state power remains influential. When Zambia proposed a draft National Land Policy in 2017 aimed at tightening rules for foreign land ownership, Chinese investors responded strategically. Many began aligning their projects with Zambia’s development priorities, emphasising contributions to local food security, donating to charities, and promoting themselves as responsible corporate actors.

Model 2: Farm block on government land

In northern Zambia, for example, a Chinese company partnered with the government to develop a farm block on state-owned land that had been converted from customary tenure for national development. Unlike the commercial farm model, the government played a central role, selecting the investor, managing the land and negotiating the deal. The project promised infrastructure and jobs, enhancing the political standing of local officials.

But this kind of state-led development works only when the promises are delivered. In other areas where farm blocks failed to materialise, traditional chiefs reclaimed the land. In the northern case, actual physical infrastructure investment helped reinforce state authority.

Model 3: Contract farming on customary land

The third model is very different. For instance, a Chinese agribusiness company arranged contract farming deals with over 50,000 smallholders in Zambia’s Eastern Province. Instead of buying or leasing land, the company provided seeds and bought cotton from farmers after harvest. This let the company access land informally, without triggering the legal and political risks of converting customary land to leasehold.

Operating on customary land posed challenges for investors. When farmers defaulted on loans or engaged in side-selling, companies had limited legal recourse and often had to negotiate with chiefs and local communities rather than the state. In such contexts, traditional authorities – not the central government – wielded the decisive power over land and its governance.

Why this matters

In a world where land deals are often controversial, understanding how local rules shape global investment is crucial. It’s not just about who buys the land, but under what terms, and how those terms are enforced. African governments are not just passive bystanders; they’re active players who use land institutions to negotiate power and development.

Read more:
China and Africa: Ethiopia case study debunks investment myths

This research urges us to look beyond the headlines about “land grabs” and instead focus on the everyday politics of land. If African states want to steer rural development on their own terms, understanding and strengthening land institutions – both statutory and customary – is key.

This research is developed from Yuezhou Yang’s MRes/PhD project, which is supported by funding from the China Scholarship Council 201708040015.

– ref. Are Chinese investors grabbing Zambian land? Study finds that’s a myth – https://theconversation.com/are-chinese-investors-grabbing-zambian-land-study-finds-thats-a-myth-257644

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Are Chinese investors grabbing Zambian land? Study finds that’s a myth

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Yuezhou Yang, Research Fellow, London School of Economics and Political Science

Media coverage of Chinese land investments in African agriculture often reinforces narratives of a “weak African state” and the “Chinese land grab”, highlighting power imbalances between the actors involved in these land deals.

Are Chinese actors grabbing land in Africa and jeopardising local people’s land rights and food security?

China’s “Agriculture Going Out” policy, launched in 2007 as part of its broader “Going Out” strategy, was reinforced by the Belt and Road Initiative from 2013. Backed by these policies, Chinese foreign direct investment in Africa rose from US$74.81 million in 2003 to US$4.99 billion in 2021. By 2020, US$1.67 billion was invested in African agriculture, with nearly two-thirds targeting cash crop cultivation. Zambia ranked among the top ten African countries receiving Chinese foreign direct investment and loans.

My research on Zambian agriculture finds that Chinese land grabbing is a myth. Instead, Chinese investors have preferred different investment models according to the specific rules of land access, transfer and control of three land tenure systems in Zambia.

What ties the three types of Chinese agricultural investments together is this: land institutions matter. Whether it’s central government rules or traditional authority, these systems shape how foreign investment happens and what impact it has.

Read more: Foreign agriculture investments don’t always threaten food security: the case of Madagascar

Each of the three models raises new opportunities and challenges for rural development and land governance. These findings matter because they offer insights into the future of land rights, livelihoods and state-building in African countries.

Not all land is the same

After independence, all land in Zambia was vested in the president, held in trust for the people. Today, the country still operates under a dual land system, as outlined in the 1995 Lands Act. State land, managed by the central government, includes both private and government leaseholds. Customary land, on the other hand, remains under the authority of traditional chiefs. The exact proportion of state and customary land in Zambia is contested, with estimates of customary land ranging widely from 94% to 54%.

This tenure distinction is significant because each type of land is governed by different rules regarding foreign access and ownership, which shape how foreign investors choose their investment models.

Over four months of fieldwork in Zambia, I gathered data on 50 Chinese agricultural projects (41 remained active) through 96 qualitative interviews. These projects were spread across three types of land tenure: private leasehold (37), government leasehold (1), and customary land (3).

Model 1: Commercial farm on private land

My fieldwork data showed that the majority of Chinese agricultural investments in Zambia are located on private leasehold land, typically following the commercial farm model. This type of land functions much like private property, held under 99-year leases that can be bought, sold or transferred. Investors use it for large-scale farming operations, such as maize, soybean and wheat production.

Even in these seemingly privatised spaces, however, state power remains influential. When Zambia proposed a draft National Land Policy in 2017 aimed at tightening rules for foreign land ownership, Chinese investors responded strategically. Many began aligning their projects with Zambia’s development priorities, emphasising contributions to local food security, donating to charities, and promoting themselves as responsible corporate actors.

Model 2: Farm block on government land

In northern Zambia, for example, a Chinese company partnered with the government to develop a farm block on state-owned land that had been converted from customary tenure for national development. Unlike the commercial farm model, the government played a central role, selecting the investor, managing the land and negotiating the deal. The project promised infrastructure and jobs, enhancing the political standing of local officials.

But this kind of state-led development works only when the promises are delivered. In other areas where farm blocks failed to materialise, traditional chiefs reclaimed the land. In the northern case, actual physical infrastructure investment helped reinforce state authority.

Model 3: Contract farming on customary land

The third model is very different. For instance, a Chinese agribusiness company arranged contract farming deals with over 50,000 smallholders in Zambia’s Eastern Province. Instead of buying or leasing land, the company provided seeds and bought cotton from farmers after harvest. This let the company access land informally, without triggering the legal and political risks of converting customary land to leasehold.

Operating on customary land posed challenges for investors. When farmers defaulted on loans or engaged in side-selling, companies had limited legal recourse and often had to negotiate with chiefs and local communities rather than the state. In such contexts, traditional authorities – not the central government – wielded the decisive power over land and its governance.

Why this matters

In a world where land deals are often controversial, understanding how local rules shape global investment is crucial. It’s not just about who buys the land, but under what terms, and how those terms are enforced. African governments are not just passive bystanders; they’re active players who use land institutions to negotiate power and development.

Read more: China and Africa: Ethiopia case study debunks investment myths

This research urges us to look beyond the headlines about “land grabs” and instead focus on the everyday politics of land. If African states want to steer rural development on their own terms, understanding and strengthening land institutions – both statutory and customary – is key.

– Are Chinese investors grabbing Zambian land? Study finds that’s a myth
– https://theconversation.com/are-chinese-investors-grabbing-zambian-land-study-finds-thats-a-myth-257644

MIL OSI Africa –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI: LambdaTest Unveils Groundbreaking Mobile Accessibility Testing Capabilities for Android and iOS

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

San Francisco, CA, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LambdaTest, a unified agentic AI and cloud engineering platform, announces the launch of its most comprehensive mobile accessibility testing capabilities to date. With new features that support both manual and automated accessibility testing on Android and iOS, LambdaTest is redefining how teams validate digital inclusivity across the mobile landscape.

As mobile applications continue to play a central role in commerce, communication, and productivity, meeting accessibility standards like WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) has become essential. LambdaTest’s new capabilities empower QA, development, and product teams to identify, resolve, and prevent accessibility issues at every stage of the mobile app development lifecycle.

The release introduces three powerful additions to the LambdaTest platform. First, the Android Accessibility Scanner for Manual Testing provides real-time issue detection directly within the manual testing environment on real devices. Second, Android Accessibility Automation Testing brings scalable, automated WCAG compliance checks into the CI/CD pipeline using Appium and HyperExecute. Finally, iOS Accessibility Automation Testing enables the same robust, cross-platform validation for Apple devices, ensuring consistency across Android and iOS ecosystems.

“Accessibility should never be an afterthought; it is a cornerstone of exceptional mobile experiences,” said Asad Khan, Co-Founder & CEO of LambdaTest. “With these new capabilities, we’re giving teams the tools they need to deliver inclusive apps faster and more efficiently. Whether you’re manually testing on a real Android device or running automated tests across a fleet of iOS devices, accessibility testing is now deeply integrated, scalable, and incredibly easy to adopt.”

These innovations not only streamline testing workflows but also position LambdaTest users to deliver apps that meet the needs of over 1.3 billion people globally living with disabilities. By building accessibility into mobile testing from the outset, teams can unlock new markets, mitigate compliance risks, and boost user satisfaction.

To learn more about Mobile Accessibility Testing, please visit https://www.lambdatest.com/blog/automate-accessibility-for-android-and-ios-apps/

About LambdaTest
LambdaTest is an AI-native, omnichannel software quality platform that empowers businesses to accelerate time to market through intelligent, cloud-based test authoring, orchestration, and execution. With over 15,000 customers and 2.3 million+ users across 130+ countries, LambdaTest is the trusted choice for modern software testing.

● Browser & App Testing Cloud: Enables manual and automated testing of web and mobile apps across 10,000+ browsers, real devices, and OS environments, ensuring cross-platform consistency.

● HyperExecute: An AI-native test execution and orchestration cloud that runs tests up to 70% faster than traditional grids, offering smart test distribution, automatic retries, real-time logs, and seamless CI/CD integration.

● KaneAI: The world’s first GenAI-native testing agent, leveraging LLMs for effortless test creation, intelligent automation, and self-evolving test execution. It integrates directly with Jira, Slack, GitHub, and other DevOps tools.

For more information, please visit https://lambdatest.com

The MIL Network –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI: LambdaTest Unveils Groundbreaking Mobile Accessibility Testing Capabilities for Android and iOS

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

San Francisco, CA, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LambdaTest, a unified agentic AI and cloud engineering platform, announces the launch of its most comprehensive mobile accessibility testing capabilities to date. With new features that support both manual and automated accessibility testing on Android and iOS, LambdaTest is redefining how teams validate digital inclusivity across the mobile landscape.

As mobile applications continue to play a central role in commerce, communication, and productivity, meeting accessibility standards like WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) has become essential. LambdaTest’s new capabilities empower QA, development, and product teams to identify, resolve, and prevent accessibility issues at every stage of the mobile app development lifecycle.

The release introduces three powerful additions to the LambdaTest platform. First, the Android Accessibility Scanner for Manual Testing provides real-time issue detection directly within the manual testing environment on real devices. Second, Android Accessibility Automation Testing brings scalable, automated WCAG compliance checks into the CI/CD pipeline using Appium and HyperExecute. Finally, iOS Accessibility Automation Testing enables the same robust, cross-platform validation for Apple devices, ensuring consistency across Android and iOS ecosystems.

“Accessibility should never be an afterthought; it is a cornerstone of exceptional mobile experiences,” said Asad Khan, Co-Founder & CEO of LambdaTest. “With these new capabilities, we’re giving teams the tools they need to deliver inclusive apps faster and more efficiently. Whether you’re manually testing on a real Android device or running automated tests across a fleet of iOS devices, accessibility testing is now deeply integrated, scalable, and incredibly easy to adopt.”

These innovations not only streamline testing workflows but also position LambdaTest users to deliver apps that meet the needs of over 1.3 billion people globally living with disabilities. By building accessibility into mobile testing from the outset, teams can unlock new markets, mitigate compliance risks, and boost user satisfaction.

To learn more about Mobile Accessibility Testing, please visit https://www.lambdatest.com/blog/automate-accessibility-for-android-and-ios-apps/

About LambdaTest
LambdaTest is an AI-native, omnichannel software quality platform that empowers businesses to accelerate time to market through intelligent, cloud-based test authoring, orchestration, and execution. With over 15,000 customers and 2.3 million+ users across 130+ countries, LambdaTest is the trusted choice for modern software testing.

● Browser & App Testing Cloud: Enables manual and automated testing of web and mobile apps across 10,000+ browsers, real devices, and OS environments, ensuring cross-platform consistency.

● HyperExecute: An AI-native test execution and orchestration cloud that runs tests up to 70% faster than traditional grids, offering smart test distribution, automatic retries, real-time logs, and seamless CI/CD integration.

● KaneAI: The world’s first GenAI-native testing agent, leveraging LLMs for effortless test creation, intelligent automation, and self-evolving test execution. It integrates directly with Jira, Slack, GitHub, and other DevOps tools.

For more information, please visit https://lambdatest.com

The MIL Network –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Oaklands Farm Solar Park development consent decision announced
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Oaklands Farm Solar Park development consent decision announced

The Oaklands Farm Solar Park application has today been granted development consent by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero.
Oaklands Farm Solar Park

The application will comprise of the construction and operation of a solar farm plus energy storage with associated infrastructure and connection to the grid.

The application was submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for consideration by Oaklands Farm Solar Limited on 8 February 2024 and accepted for examination on 5 March 2024. 

Following an examination during which the public, statutory consultees and interested parties were given the opportunity to give evidence to the Examining Authority, recommendations were made to the Secretary of State on 19 March 2025.  

This is the 94th energy application out of 158 applications examined to date and was again completed by the Planning Inspectorate within the statutory timescale laid down in the Planning Act 2008.  

Local communities continue to be given the opportunity of being involved in the examination of projects that may affect them. Local people, the local authority and other interested parties were able to participate in this six-month examination.  

The Examining Authority listened and gave full consideration to all local views and the evidence gathered during the examination before making its recommendation to the Secretary of State. 

The decision, the recommendation made by the Examining Authority to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero and the evidence considered by the Examining Authority in reaching its recommendation are publicly available on the project pages of the National Infrastructure Planning website. 

Journalists wanting further information should contact the Planning Inspectorate Press Office, on 0303 444 5004 or 0303 444 5005 or email:  

Press.office@planninginspectorate.gov.uk

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Published 19 June 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI: As BTC Aims for $230k All-Time-High (ATH), PFM Crypto Announces Smart Cloud Mining to Help Users Maximize BTC Earning

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

LOS ANGELES, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoin (BTC) has come under the spotlight again as analysts project its new all-time high to reach $230k in the next bull market. This price prediction has sparked optimism among crypto holders and investors. Some investors debate the possibility of BTC achieving this new price, while others continue to explore profitable ways to accumulate more BTC in preparation.

Click here to watch the video: How to Profit from PFM CRYPTO Mining?

Noted for its high volatility, growing crypto portfolio by buying is considered high risk by investors – especially first-time crypto traders. However, BTC has consistently shown signs of strengthening momentum, driving market sentiment towards a buy and hold trading strategies.

PFM Crypto is dedicated to offering users in 192 countries a secure way to acquire crypto and grow their portfolio without increasing their financial strains. As a leading cloud-mining protocol with millions of users, PFM Crypto technology powers the next generation of smart crypto mining, enriching seasoned investors and first-time traders without bias or border restriction.

PFM Crypto Launch a 1-day BTC Mining Plan with Instant Withdrawal and $10 Welcome Bonus.
Trusted by over 9.2 million users at the time of writing, PFM Crypto has established itself as a secured and reliable cloud mining protocol in 2025, offering a flexible yet straightforward cloud mining service to users in over 192 countries using cutting-edge technology and a click-to-mine crypto mining model.
Featuring an easy-to-use and trackable mining interface, PFM Crypto empowers investors with all the tools required to maximize their portfolio as they prepare for the next bull cycle for leading cryptocurrencies like BTC, LTC, DOGE and XRP.

Mine in 1-day for 6.00% reward – Withdrawal in 24 hours – Overcome the Challenge of Hidden Fees.
Click here to view the 1-Day BTC Mining Plan.

Investors preparing for the next bull cycle can now earn BTC without buying – start by setting up a mining contract and start earning more BTC directly into their wallets in 24 hours.

“The ultimate goal is for PFM Crypto to support the creation of a crypto space that is established on proper re-distribution of wealth approach, not one that gets investors to panic-sell when the price hits low. This is why we launch the 1-day BTC mining contract- to enable investors to grow their portfolios consistently as we prepare for the coming bull cycle,” said PFMCrypto CEO.

June BTC mining revenue forecast:
1-day contract strategy: +6.00% revenue
5-day contract strategy: +6.15% revenue
15-day contract strategy: +20.70% revenue
30-day contract strategy: +55.6% revenue
These are not hypothetical data, but are based on real feedback from millions of users.

Click here to view all mining contract strategies.

Why PFM Crypto is the Best Platform for BTC Mining in 2025:
– $10 welcome bonus: PFM Crypto gives every user a $10 welcome bonus to buy their first mining contract
– No hardware requirement: PFM Crypto makes it possible for everyday users to mine BTC without investing in a single hardware. The platform rents out its existing mining power to make mining with a click possible.
– AI-Support: Make informed mining decisions for better returns. With an AI-supported dashboard, users can track their mining power, contract level and mining difficulty level.
– ESG-Compliant Infrastructure: Users who are worried about the impact of mining on the ecosystem can relax knowing that PFM Crypto operate an ESG-Compliant policy and infrastructure.
– Flexible Mining Plan: Starting with its newly launched 1-day BTC mining contract, PFM Crypto allows users to choose their preferred mining plan without facing any disadvantages.
– Free and Instant Withdrawal: Understanding why every $BTC earning is vital, PFM Crypto makes it possible for users to earn crypto within 24 hours and withdraw it directly to their wallet without delay or fee.

About PFM CRYPTO
PFMCrypto is operated by Precision Financial Management Ltd, a UK-registered and FCA-regulated entity (Company No. 11719896), headquartered in Leyland, England. Founded in 2018, PFMCrypto represents a new category of crypto platform—data-driven, performance-focused, and widely trusted. Backed by a global community of successful users, it stands out as one of this year’s most compelling digital asset opportunities for investors and traders seeking substance over hype. As global interest in crypto trading continues to surge, PFM Crypto present seasoned investors and first-time traders with the technological support and mining platform that allows them to build their portfolios cost-effectively.

Get your free $10: https://pfmcrypto.net

Media Contact:

Amelia Elspeth
PFMcrypto
info@pfmcrypto.net

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/be992f6f-5601-45b1-bf2a-7716206f437b

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d05dd13d-2eb8-4c20-ac01-c74e1e14b67c

The MIL Network –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Vala Umgodi operations net over 200 suspects

Source: South Africa News Agency

The South African Police Service’s (SAPS) Vala Umgodi operations continue to make progress with 239 suspects having been arrested throughout the country.

According to the police, the suspects were arrested for illegal mining-related offences and various other crimes that include, among others, attempted murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm, possession of unpolished diamonds, unlawful possession of explosives and contravention of the Immigration Act.

On Tuesday, a 42-year-old Sydwell Shane Mkhantswa appeared briefly in the Kwa-Mbonambi Periodical Court in connection with a case of theft of minerals from Richards Bay Minerals (RBM).

His arrest relates to a tracing operation on 03 March 2024, when members of Operation Vala Umgodi and Kwa-Mbonambi police officers responded to reports of a truck which was intercepted carrying over R800 000 worth of suspected stolen Zircon from RBM.

Further investigation linked the suspect with another Kwa-Mbonambi case of theft of minerals in which he allegedly delivered RBM minerals to Isiphingo in Durban where police found over R24 million worth of suspected stolen minerals.

After several tracking and tracing operations, the suspect was cornered and arrested at a residence in Germiston, Gauteng on 12 June 2025.

The accused is scheduled to appear in court again on 24 June 2025, where he is expected to make a formal bail application.

In operations starting from 01- 15 June 2025, six unlicensed firearms, 26 rounds of ammunition and four vehicles were seized.

Other highlights per province for the past week include:
•    Limpopo: Vala Umgodi teams conducted disruptive operations at Sefateng Chrome Mine and Bokone Platinum Mine on 13 June 2025. Four suspects were arrested, and a large quantity of chromite ore and illegal mining equipment was seized.
•    Free State: Members deployed for Operation Vala Umgodi in Free State, acting on intelligence successful intercepted a white Toyota Quantum panel van travelling from Gauteng province en route to Cape Town, and discovered a consignment of Khat plants worth R210, 000. Police arrested a 43-year-old man on charges of possession of suspected drugs and drug trafficking.
•    Northern Cape: On 06 June 2025, members attached to Operation Vala Umgodi arrested 11 suspects aged between 29 and 44 years in Kimberley and Kleinzee, respectively. During the operations, members received information about suspected illegal miners hiding at a Game Reserve Farm near Koingnaas. The team operationalised the information, which resulted in the arrest of nine suspects and charged them for various offences, including contravention of Immigration laws, trespassing, and possession of unpolished diamonds.
•    Mpumalanga: A 30-year-old illegal miner was shot and injured during a shootout with members of Vala Umgodi operation in Sabie, on 11 June 2025. The suspect was initially admitted to Sabie Hospital under police guard and has since been discharged and placed in custody.
•    Gauteng: A wanted suspect was fatally wounded during a shootout with members of Operation Vala Umgodi on 13 June 2025. He was wanted for shooting at police officers at Zamimpilo Informal Settlement and was located at Soul City Informal Settlement. The team recovered a firearm that will undergo ballistic tests to establish if it was used in the commission of other crimes.
•    North West: Vala Umgodi operation continued its clampdown on illicit mining and immigration violations in. On 05 June 2025, members conducted disruptive illegal mining operation at Rocin mine in the area of Wolwerand, led to the seizure of illegal mining equipment that include various explosives, four generators, jack hammers, spades, a welding machine, gas bottles, a water pump, four pendukas and gold bearing material.

“With coordinated operations across the affected provinces, Operation Vala Umgodi continues to deliver results in its mandate to disrupt and dismantle illegal mining activities, specifically within and around mining communities.

“Since its inception December 2023, Operation Vala Umgodi led to the arrest of more than 27 000 suspects with more than 600 firearms, that include imitation firearms (toy guns) and 16 000 rounds of ammunition seized,” said the police. – SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI NGOs: Dire warning on 1.5°C goal must spark urgent climate action

Source: Greenpeace Statement –

Bonn, Germany, New data indicating there may be just three years left to keep the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C goal alive must urgently galvanise accelerated global emissions cuts and enhanced climate action.

Data from scientists revealed that the available carbon budget is rapidly shrinking and that at the current rate of emissions the remaining carbon budget to limit global warming to 1.5°C goal could be surpassed in three years.[1]

Shiva Gounden, Head of Pacific, Greenpeace Australia Pacific said: “This message is a matter of survival for us in the Pacific and all small island developing states. The message is clear – we need to end climate and nature destruction and act with the urgency required. The answer is simple: end the production and burning of coal, oil and gas and defend our future.”

“We continue to hope and act, but where is the urgency from the major emitters? It’s time to genuinely stand in solidarity with the people on the frontlines of this crisis. The climate is on fire and our way of life is on the line. This is the greatest existential threat for our Pacific to live as Pasifika people.”

Tracy Carty, Climate Politics Expert, Greenpeace International said: “This is yet another dire warning that must spark a response. Talk must turn into action. But here in Bonn that urgency seems to be lacking. Our backs are against the wall and governments need to step up.”

“That means unveiling bold and ambitious 2035 climate action plans that rapidly push ahead with the phase out of coal, oil and gas – especially in rich developed countries who need to move the fastest.”

“As emissions continue and monthly temperature records stack up, it’s getting harder and harder to achieve the 1.5°C goal, but now is not the time to give up! Every fraction of a degree matters and more action is needed. What matters now is what we do today and tomorrow.”

An Lambrechts, Biodiversity Politics Expert, Greenpeace International said: “The 1.5°C goal is also hugely reliant on ending deforestation and that’s why governments must agree at COP30 on an action plan to implement existing commitments to end deforestation and forest degradation by 2030. As COP30 heads to the Amazon under Brazil’s presidency, we must seize this significant opportunity to accelerate protection and restoration of critical ecosystems.”

ENDS

Notes:
[1]Scientists find three years left of remaining carbon budget for 1.5°C

Greenpeace Bonn Climate Change Conference media briefing

Contacts:
Aaron Gray-Block, Climate Politics Communications Manager, Greenpeace International, [email protected]

Gaby Flores, Communications Coordinator, Greenpeace International, +1 214 454 3871, [email protected]

Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), [email protected]

Join the Greenpeace UNFCCC WhatsApp Update Group

MIL OSI NGO –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – MEPs propose stricter rules on dog and cat welfare and traceability

Source: European Parliament 3

The draft law approved by Parliament on Thursday lays down the first ever minimum EU standards for the breeding, housing, and handling of cats and dogs.

MEPs want all dogs and cats kept in the EU to be individually identifiable with a microchip.

They also demand that microchipped dogs and cats be registered in interoperable national databases. Microchip identification numbers, along with information about the corresponding national database, should be stored in a single index database managed by the Commission.

Keeping or selling dogs and cats in pet shops must be prohibited, say MEPs.

Dogs and cats from third countries

To close potential loopholes that would allow dogs and cats to enter the EU as non-commercial pets only to be subsequently sold, MEPs want to extend the rules to cover not only imports for commercial purposes but also non-commercial movements of the animals.

Dogs and cats imported from third countries for sale would have to be microchipped before their entry into the EU, and then registered in a national database. Pet owners entering the EU would be obliged to pre-register their microchipped animal on an online database, at least five working days before arrival.

Breeding and welfare of dogs and cats

Breeding between parents and offspring, grandparents and grandchildren, as well as between siblings and half-siblings, must be prohibited, stress MEPs. MEPs also want a ban on the breeding of dogs or cats that have excessive conformational traits leading to a high risk of detrimental effects on their welfare, as well as a prohibition on these animals – and mutilated dogs and cats – being used in shows, exhibitions, or competitions.

Tethering, except when necessary for medical treatment, and the use of prong and choke collars without safety tops must be prohibited, add MEPs.

Parliament adopted its position on EU rules for the welfare and traceability of dogs and cats by 457 votes to 17, with 86 abstentions.

Quote

Rapporteur and Chair of the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee, Veronika Vrecionová (ECR, CZ), said: “This marks a clear move against illegal breeding and the irresponsible importation of animals from outside the EU.”

“While further dialogue will be needed to fine-tune some details, I believe we are united in our aim to protect the welfare of dogs and cats. This shared commitment is a strong starting point for productive talks with the Commission and Council,” adds the rapporteur.

Next steps

MEPs will now enter into negotiations with the Council on the final shape of the law.

Background

With around 44% of Union citizens keeping a pet, the trade in dogs and cats has grown considerably in recent years and is worth €1.3 billion a year, according to the Commission. Around 60% of owners purchase their dogs or cats online. In the absence of unified minimum animal welfare standards for dogs and cats across the member states, the Commission proposed these new rules on 7 December 2023.

MIL OSI Europe News –

June 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Agricultural products from Türkiye containing banned pesticides – E-001061/2025(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
Food products from third countries, regardless of their origin, must comply with EU food safety standards laid down in EU legislation. According to Regulation (EU) 2017/625[1], Member States must carry out official controls and enforcement activities at all stages of distribution, including at the import stage.

Where food of non-animal origin from third countries poses a risk, the Commission adopts measures through Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/1793[2], including increased frequency checks at border control posts.

Member States are to impose penalties applicable to the infringement of the Union agri-food chain legislation. These penalties shall be effective, proportionate, dissuasive and the Member States’ competent authorities are responsible for the removal of non-compliant consignments from the EU market.

The Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) is established to ensure an exchange of information between Member States to support a swift reaction by food safety authorities.

The Commission performs audits[3] in Member States and in third countries to ensure that their official control systems guarantee that goods intended for export to the EU comply with applicable EU rules. As suggested in the Vision for Food and Agriculture, a dedicated task force will be established, which will significantly increase the Union’s response to further strengthening the control on imports.

[1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2017/625/oj.

[2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg_impl/2019/1793/oj/eng.

[3] https://ec.europa.eu/food/audits-analysis/audit_reports/index.cfm.
Last updated: 18 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Agricultural products from Türkiye containing banned pesticides – E-001061/2025(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
Food products from third countries, regardless of their origin, must comply with EU food safety standards laid down in EU legislation. According to Regulation (EU) 2017/625[1], Member States must carry out official controls and enforcement activities at all stages of distribution, including at the import stage.

Where food of non-animal origin from third countries poses a risk, the Commission adopts measures through Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/1793[2], including increased frequency checks at border control posts.

Member States are to impose penalties applicable to the infringement of the Union agri-food chain legislation. These penalties shall be effective, proportionate, dissuasive and the Member States’ competent authorities are responsible for the removal of non-compliant consignments from the EU market.

The Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) is established to ensure an exchange of information between Member States to support a swift reaction by food safety authorities.

The Commission performs audits[3] in Member States and in third countries to ensure that their official control systems guarantee that goods intended for export to the EU comply with applicable EU rules. As suggested in the Vision for Food and Agriculture, a dedicated task force will be established, which will significantly increase the Union’s response to further strengthening the control on imports.

[1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2017/625/oj.

[2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg_impl/2019/1793/oj/eng.

[3] https://ec.europa.eu/food/audits-analysis/audit_reports/index.cfm.
Last updated: 18 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Agricultural products from Türkiye containing banned pesticides – E-001061/2025(ASW)
Source: European Parliament
Food products from third countries, regardless of their origin, must comply with EU food safety standards laid down in EU legislation. According to Regulation (EU) 2017/625[1], Member States must carry out official controls and enforcement activities at all stages of distribution, including at the import stage.

Where food of non-animal origin from third countries poses a risk, the Commission adopts measures through Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/1793[2], including increased frequency checks at border control posts.

Member States are to impose penalties applicable to the infringement of the Union agri-food chain legislation. These penalties shall be effective, proportionate, dissuasive and the Member States’ competent authorities are responsible for the removal of non-compliant consignments from the EU market.

The Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) is established to ensure an exchange of information between Member States to support a swift reaction by food safety authorities.

The Commission performs audits[3] in Member States and in third countries to ensure that their official control systems guarantee that goods intended for export to the EU comply with applicable EU rules. As suggested in the Vision for Food and Agriculture, a dedicated task force will be established, which will significantly increase the Union’s response to further strengthening the control on imports.

[1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2017/625/oj.

[2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg_impl/2019/1793/oj/eng.

[3] https://ec.europa.eu/food/audits-analysis/audit_reports/index.cfm.
Last updated: 18 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Nea Dimokratia Government’s announced abolishment of OPEKEPE – E-002310/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002310/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos (NI)

The revelations at the centre of the publicity surrounding OPEKEPE, Greece’s Payment and Control Agency for Guidance and Guarantee Community Aid, are hardly a ‘bolt from the blue’. They are the result of the EU’s common agricultural policy (CAP) – which all the bourgeois parties voted for, co-shaped and implemented from government positions – and, indeed, the scandalous way in which agricultural subsidies are granted.

The Nea Dimokratia Government bears full responsibility for the latest developments, because for at least six years it has continued to implement the ‘technical solution’ introduced by the previous Syriza Government from 2015 to 2017.

National governments and the Commission have been – and still are – turning a deaf ear to farmers’ and livestock breeders’ demands for subsidies to be based on actual agricultural production and actual livestock count, as well as to complaints that ‘decoupled’ payments ultimately end up in the hands of non-farmers.

In view of this, can the Commission say:

1.What view does it take of the Nea Dimokratia Government’s announcement that it will abolish OPEKEPE, which comes just as it has declared that it has submitted a plan to turn the organisation around to the EU?

2.How does it view the demands of the agricultural trade union movement for subsidies to be granted on the basis of actual agricultural production and actual livestock count?

3.What view does it take of the need to take all the necessary measures to ensure that struggling farmers are not subject to cuts, that outstanding payments be made immediately and that the system be opened so that they can submit their declarations in good time?

Submitted: 10.6.2025
Last updated: 18 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Handling the OPEKEPE scandal – E-002308/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002308/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Galato Alexandraki (ECR)

The extensive agricultural subsidy fraud scandal in Greece, uncovered by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, led to a EUR 283 million fine from the Commission on OPEKEPE and calls into question its accreditation as a paying agency. Following investigations into thousands of fake VAT numbers, false declarations of ownership, lack of controls and indications of political cover-up, the Greek Government launched a restructuring plan in cooperation with DG AGRI. In this context, a 12-month restructuring plan for OPEKEPE has been put into effect, which includes its abolition and transfer to the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (IAPR), the full digitalisation of procedures, the reconstitution of the Board of Directors and institutional oversight by the Ministry of Rural Development and Food.

In view of the above:

1.What is the Commission’s assessment of the progress of the OPEKEPE reconstruction plan?

2.How does the Commission assess the closure of the organisation and the transfer of payments to the IAPR, and does the Commission intend to impose an alternative management regime (e.g. through the EU)?

3.How is it being ensured that law-abiding farmers will not be deprived of aid during this critical transition?

Submitted: 10.6.2025
Last updated: 18 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Handling the OPEKEPE scandal – E-002308/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002308/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Galato Alexandraki (ECR)

The extensive agricultural subsidy fraud scandal in Greece, uncovered by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, led to a EUR 283 million fine from the Commission on OPEKEPE and calls into question its accreditation as a paying agency. Following investigations into thousands of fake VAT numbers, false declarations of ownership, lack of controls and indications of political cover-up, the Greek Government launched a restructuring plan in cooperation with DG AGRI. In this context, a 12-month restructuring plan for OPEKEPE has been put into effect, which includes its abolition and transfer to the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (IAPR), the full digitalisation of procedures, the reconstitution of the Board of Directors and institutional oversight by the Ministry of Rural Development and Food.

In view of the above:

1.What is the Commission’s assessment of the progress of the OPEKEPE reconstruction plan?

2.How does the Commission assess the closure of the organisation and the transfer of payments to the IAPR, and does the Commission intend to impose an alternative management regime (e.g. through the EU)?

3.How is it being ensured that law-abiding farmers will not be deprived of aid during this critical transition?

Submitted: 10.6.2025
Last updated: 18 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – European vegetable production in decline – E-002324/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002324/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Bert-Jan Ruissen (ECR)

On 2 June, the banner headline on the Foodlog news platform was: ‘European vegetable production is collapsing’ (‘Europese groenteproductie zakt weg’)[1]. Reference was made to figures from the European Statistics Handbook[2]. Over four years, EU vegetable production has fallen by 7%. The article states that there is an undeniable structural decline in production.

According to insiders, the decline stems from a combination of factors, including extreme weather events, an increase in red tape, rising labour costs, labour shortages and restrictions on the use of plant protection products.

1.How does the Commission account for the decline in EU vegetable production and what, in its view, are the key causes?

2.What is the Commission doing to gain an insight into European vegetable production and into the precise combination of factors responsible for the decline in production?

3.What specific actions is the Commission considering in order at least to maintain European vegetable production and, if possible, to boost it?

Submitted: 10.6.2025

[1] https://www.foodlog.nl/artikel/europese-groenteproductie-zakt-weg

[2] European Statistics Handbook, Fruit Logistica 2025, https://www.fruitlogistica.com/fruit-logistica/downloads-alle-sprachen/european_statistics_handbook_2025.pdf
Last updated: 18 June 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
June 19, 2025