NewzIntel.com

Category: Trade

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese ports report tourist surge amid holiday travel

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

    A foreign tourist poses for photo with a performer at Tianjin International Cruise Home Port in north China’s Tianjin Municipality, May 1, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhao Zishuo)

    Chinese port cities witnessed a notable surge in international tourist arrivals during the May Day holiday, spurred by streamlined visa policies and enhanced entry-exit services, according to immigration authorities across the country.

    From April 30 to May 3, the number of inbound and outbound foreign nationals at Beijing ports reached 69,000, up 52.1 percent year-on-year, with tourism, family visits and business cited as the main reasons for entry.

    On May 2, an international passenger flight from Paris touched down at Beijing Capital International Airport. As an elderly couple appeared uncertain while navigating the procedures at the immigration hall, Cui Zhuqing, a multilingual immigration officer, stepped forward to offer assistance in French, explaining the relevant policies and helping them clear customs smoothly.

    At major ports in Beijing, including the Capital and Daxing airports, multilingual service personnel like Cui provided over 100 consultations per shift. Moreover, dedicated lanes were set up for elderly, sick, disabled and pregnant travelers, while “one-stop” counters were set up to issue temporary entry permits and handle formalities efficiently.

    “Now it’s so much easier to get a temporary entry permit. You don’t even have to requeue — it’s as quick as tapping into the subway,” a traveler from Russia said.

    In south China’s city of Guangzhou, over 154,000 inbound and outbound cross-border travelers were recorded between May 1 and 3, marking a 23 percent year-on-year increase. “All 34 of our inspection lanes were fully operational during peak hours to ensure a safe and efficient passage,” said Lin Shunyue, an officer at the city’s Baiyun immigration checkpoint.

    As the third phase of the 137th China Import and Export Fair — also known as the Canton Fair — got underway, Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport saw a sharp uptick in activity. At a fast-track lane dedicated to the fair, officers teamed up with an AI-powered consultation system to assist travelers.

    “We visited Hong Kong after the second phase of the fair and returned for the third. China’s visa-free policy made the whole process very convenient,” a Polish businessman said.

    In the southwest Sichuan Province, Chengdu Tianfu International Airport maintained 24-hour immigration services during the five-day holiday, allowing foreign travelers immediate access upon arrival.

    With visa-free policies in place, a tourist from Spain had sufficient time to fully explore local attractions, see pandas, and enjoy Sichuan cuisine. “The city’s unique charm, strong air connectivity, and efficient immigration clearance made Chengdu my top choice,” she said.

    According to provincial immigration authorities, as of May 3, the ports of Chengdu recorded 160,000 visa-free entries of foreign nationals this year, and more than 23,000 travelers benefited from 24- or 240-hour visa-free transits, while over 51,000 transited without the need for immigration clearance.

    Nationwide, the National Immigration Administration (NIA) on Tuesday announced that border inspection agencies across China recorded 1.12 million entry and exit trips made by foreign nationals during the holiday period, up 43.1 percent year-on-year.

    Notably, more than 380,000 of them made visa-free entries into China, a 72.7 percent jump from the same period last year, according to the NIA.

    China currently grants unilateral visa-free entry to 38 countries. It also extended the transit visa-free period to 240 hours for travelers from 54 countries in December last year. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, US officials to meet on trade this week

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

    Beijing confirmed on Wednesday that its top trade negotiator will meet with his US counterpart during a visit to Switzerland this week but issued a pointed warning: dialogue must be genuine, not a cover for continued pressure and unilateral demands.

    In Washington, US Treasury Department Secretary Scott Bessent and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer announced that they will meet with their Chinese counterparts for talks.

    The conversations mark the first official public engagement between the world’s two largest economies after Trump administration’s decision of imposing hefty tariffs on China imports plunged the two into a trade war.

    In a statement issued early on Wednesday, China’s Ministry of Commerce said that senior US officials have repeatedly signaled adjustments to its tariff measures and conveyed messages through multiple channels, expressing a desire to engage with China on tariffs and related issues.

    “After careful evaluation of these US overtures and on the basis of fully considering global expectations, China’s interests, and the appeals of US industry and consumers, China has decided to re-engage the US,” a spokesman for the Chinese Ministry of Commerce said in the statement.

    The statement said that Vice-Premier He Lifeng, China’s lead representative on economic and trade issues, will hold talks with Bessent during his May 9-12 trip.

    In Washington, Bessent confirmed in an interview that they would meet on Saturday and Sunday.

    But Beijing made clear that it is entering the talks with caution. “If the US wants to talk, our door is always open,” a ministry spokesperson said. “But if you say one thing and do another, or even to attempt to use talks as a cover to continue coercion and extortion, China will never agree, let alone sacrifice its principled position and international fairness and justice to seek any agreement.”

    The spokesperson noted that negotiations must be grounded in “mutual respect, equal consultation and mutual benefit”.

    The ministry’s statement cited an old Chinese saying: “We must not only listen to what they say but also watch what they do,” warning that any future agreement would depend on Washington’s sincerity and actions — not just its words.

    The statement also carries a message to other economies that are engaging with Washington. “Appeasement does not bring peace, and compromise does not earn respect,” it said, adding that only by adhering to principles, fairness, and justice can one truly safeguard interests.

    Ahead of the planned meeting in Switzerland, Bessent said he looked forward to “productive talks”.

    He said the US and China had to de-escalate before they can move forward with trade negotiations.

    “My sense is that this will be about de-escalation, not about the big trade deal, but we’ve got to de-escalate before we can move forward,” Bessent said in an interview on Fox News on Tuesday.

    He also said “the current tariffs and trade barriers are unsustainable, but we don’t want to decouple”.

    In his first 100 days in office since Jan 20, US President Donald Trump has announced sweeping tariffs, starting with a 10 percent blanket duty on all foreign-made imports.

    Dozens of countries received a 90-day pause until July, but tariffs were raised to 145 percent on products from China, which has retaliated by imposing 125 percent levies on US goods.

    Gary Hufbauer, a senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics in Washington, said the Switzerland meeting is very important, and that “the news would be warmly welcomed by the financial markets and trading firms”.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Professional standards in the Prison and Probation Service Speech

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Speech

    Professional standards in the Prison and Probation Service Speech

    Lord Timpson, Minister for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending, sets out how the government is responding to Jennifer Rademaker’s Review into professional standards in HMPPS.

    Thank you, Jennifer, for that introduction, it’s great to be here. 

    Let me start by thanking Emily for hosting us today…  

    And for everything you do to lead by example at High Down. A culture of high professional standards starts at the top – I know you take that incredibly seriously.    

    Thanks to all the staff here today – for the absolutely critical work you do day in, and day out, to protect the public and turn lives around… 

    And to everyone involved in putting this event together. 

    Of course, I also want to thank you, Jennifer, and the people who supported you, for this important report, and for your work as a Non-Executive Director at the Ministry of Justice. I’m fortunate to have you as a colleague. 

    This marks a watershed moment for every part of HMPPS – Prison, Probation and YCS. 

    A wake-up call, and an opportunity to change things for the better, for more than 65,000 staff who work there. 

    I want to start with two stories. Two real life stories, showing two very different faces of the same Service. The first is about a prison officer – I’ll call her Jane. 

    It was a night shift like any other. Things seemed calm – the prison was under control. The kind of shift where officers carry out routine monitoring, and respond to any emergencies.  

    Jane was doing exactly that, focusing on the checks she needed to make. 

    Also on duty that night was a senior colleague. A man in a position of authority. He was a higher rank than Jane. And he had more years in the job than she did. 

    Jane had heard things about him. That he had a reputation. It was, as she put it, “common knowledge” that he could be lecherous. But she’d never had a problem herself… 

    Until that night. 

    It started with the way he looked at her – lingering, unsettling. Then, out of nowhere, he asked: “What’s your bra size?”  

    Jane was taken aback, unsure at first if she’d heard it right.  

    She answered, firmly: “That’s none of your business.” 

    And she walked out of the room. But the man followed her. 

    Cornering her in a nearby kitchen, he grabbed hold of Jane, and forced his tongue into her mouth. Then he groped her. 

    Jane felt trapped. Frightened and powerless. 

    Like so many men in positions of authority who abuse their power like this, he told her that it needed to be their “secret”.  

    Shocked, and shaken, Jane didn’t report what had happened at first. 

    Because he was in charge.  

    Because she didn’t want to rock the boat. 

    Because she loved her job…  

    And she didn’t want to lose it. 

    Eventually, Jane did work up the courage to come forward. Her colleague was sacked, rightly. And he was brought to justice – prosecuted for sexually assaulting Jane, and another officer.  

    He is due to be sentenced soon, and could very well go from patrolling the prison landings, to living on them. His actions were clearly despicable. But Jane’s story begs the question… 

    Why did it take an assault for this man to finally be called out?  

    Why, when he already had a reputation, was he not exposed sooner? 

    Too often, in the Prison and Probation Service, unacceptable behaviour is laughed off as a joke, as lads being lads.  

    The trouble is, when someone says, “it’s just banter”, it becomes harder and harder to call this behaviour out for what it really is:  

    Abuse. Intimidation. And harassment.  

    It’s unacceptable. And this Government will not tolerate it, at all. 

    But I said there were two stories. The second takes us to HMP Frankland – one of our most secure, most challenging prisons.  

    Just last month, three officers there were brutally attacked by an inmate. Stabbed and slashed. A lifechanging, traumatic experience.    

    There’s an investigation underway, so I won’t go beyond what’s been reported publicly…  

    But I can say this: Without the courage and quick thinking of those officers, and their colleagues, who responded, lives would have been lost.  

    And it was a privilege to speak to some of the officers involved myself, when I visited Frankland recently. 

    They ran towards danger, when others would run away. They are true heroes. And our thoughts are with the injured officers as they continue to recover.  

    That kind of bravery isn’t rare in the Service.  

    Our probation officers, too, manage risk constantly, working with dangerous offenders to keep the public safe. 

    These are jobs where heroism happens daily, in environments more stressful, more pressurised, than people could possibly imagine.  

    And I see the same spirit time and again when I visit a prison or a PDU:  

    Dedication. Sacrifice. An unshakeable sense of duty. 

    The question is, then: how do we make this a Service worthy of the heroes at Frankland? Worthy of every hero in the Service? 

    Because behind high prison walls, in PDUs, and offices, away from public eyes, toxic behaviour can all too easily take root and grow – unless we weed it out.   

    Unacceptable behaviour – language, attitudes, and actions – have become normalised, tolerated, and accepted over time.  

    And, as Jennifer’s report shows, bullying, intimidation, and harassment in HMPPS has gone unchecked for far too long. Her findings are deeply sobering: 

    There is a “vacuum of pastoral care” for victims of sexual harassment – too often left to raise concerns with a line manager, who may be well-meaning, but hasn’t been trained to handle the situation sensitively. 

    Little is being done to track complaints, making it almost impossible to get a sense of the scale of the problem… In turn, making it much harder to take meaningful action. 

    And the message is clear: there is a fundamental, devastating, lack of trust in how complaints of bullying, discrimination and harassment are dealt with. 

    Too many staff feel unable to speak out, fearing they won’t be believed…  

    That it will only make matters worse – because the hierarchy above them will close ranks…  

    And that nothing will be done. This isn’t a culture that we should stand for. 

    We must rebuild that trust. And to begin doing so, we need to face up to the realities of the situation as they exist today, and the effect this has on staff:   

    Imagine making a complaint, knowing full well it will be investigated by a senior manager, who is friends with the person harassing you – and they socialise together outside of work, too. 

    Imagine, plucking up the courage to come forward, only to have your complaint passed on to the perpetrator. Or to learn that paperwork about your grievance has been left in a public area, for all to see. 

    Imagine seeing a colleague branded a ‘grass’, for speaking out. 

    Would you want to come forward under those circumstances?  

    Would you have confidence you’d be dealt with fairly? 

    These are just some of the examples laid bare in Jennifer’s report. 

    Last year, one in eight HMPPS staff said that they had been bullied or harassed, or that they’d experienced discrimination. Many said they didn’t feel as though they could come forward, or that they would be punished, if they did. 

    All of this is against a backdrop of damaging newspaper headlines. Stories of inappropriate relationships between staff and inmates, and officers smuggling in contraband and drugs. I know this doesn’t represent the majority of staff in our prisons, but the fact remains: it happens. 

    And unacceptable behaviour isn’t just confined to our prisons. The Inspectorates continue to highlight problems, including racism and discrimination, across the Service. They do a crucial job in highlighting these issues, even if they are, at times, difficult to read. 

    Some of these stories may not make the front pages in the same way, but they are no less devastating. 

    Disabled staff, still struggling to get the basic adjustments they need to do their jobs.  

    Colleagues who have been repeatedly subjected to racist remarks, but keep quiet, because they think nothing will change.  

    And the cost of this isn’t just reputational. It’s human.  

    Unacceptable behaviour breaks people. It drives out good staff, the kind we want to keep in the service. It creates a toxic culture.  

    And it makes it much harder for you to do your jobs – the vital work that turns lives around, cuts crime, and makes our streets safer. 

    That’s why professional standards matter. They cannot simply be words on paper. They must be reflected in how we treat each other, every day. In every team – on every shift. 

    And where those standards aren’t met – our staff – and the public – must know that we’ll take swift and decisive action.  

    To its credit, HMPPS recognised that something needed to be done. That’s why Jennifer was asked to carry out her independent Review in the first place. And I’m delighted both that she agreed to do it, and that we’ve accepted her recommendations in full. 

    But most of all, I’m grateful to all the staff who spoke up – who shared their stories so honestly, openly, and bravely. You are the reason we can move forward. And you are the reason we must. 

    And we have to be honest about the problem: this is about more than just a few bad apples. 

    These are deep rooted cultural issues, and they have been allowed to go on for too long.  

    But this Government takes its duty seriously, and it is acting. 

    So, we will fundamentally change how complaints of bullying, harassment and discrimination are dealt with in our Prison and Probation Service.  

    As Jennifer recommends, and in line with other public services like the Armed Forces, we will create a new unit, sitting jointly between the MoJ and HMPPS, to handle allegations of unacceptable behaviour. And we will fund it in full. 

    Crucially, this unit will be entirely independent, taking complaints away from the line management hierarchy.  

    It means staff can have confidence that their concerns will be dealt with properly, fairly, and in absolute confidence. Not by a manager, who may even be complicit in the behaviour, but by a dedicated team of experts. 

    No more conflicts of interest. No more ‘boys club’ networks. 

    HMPPS is now working closely with the Trade Unions to develop a model for how the unit will work, including how cases will be triaged, investigated, and resolved. And I appreciate their continued engagement, and challenge.  

    And we’re going further. This new unit will be overseen by an independent Commissioner, who will report publicly each year on the unit’s work and how bullying, harassment, and discrimination policies are being applied. 

    This will bring both accountability and progress, as we transform how bullying, harassment and discrimination are dealt with across the Service. 

    It marks a seismic shift, a major departure from what has gone before.  

    But it is only the beginning of how we rebuild the trust that has been lost. 

    As Jennifer recommends, we will introduce new guidance on sexual harassment, which sets out what managers must do in response, and where they can get advice if they are unsure. It makes clear that suspected crimes like sexual assault or rape should be reported to the police, and, crucially, that there is support for victims, and where they can get it. 

    Moving forward, these sensitive cases will be handled by the new specialist joint unit, so victims know they’ll be listened to in confidence, and supported by people who are properly trained to help. 

    We will make better use of data, publishing complaints statistics, and outcomes, to bring greater transparency, while protecting staff confidentiality. The goal is simple: to give more people the confidence to speak up, and that their concerns will lead to action.  

    And we are bringing together the wider professional standards and counter corruption work already underway, so we can spot patterns of unacceptable behaviour earlier…  

    So we can investigate them properly…  

    And so we can dismiss those responsible – the people who tarnish your reputation, and damage public trust. 

    We’re also bolstering the existing Tackling Unacceptable Behaviour Unit. Their work is important, but, as Jennifer sets out in her report, their ‘Climate Assessments’ into the experiences of prison staff haven’t had the intended impact. Too often, staff feel that what they say isn’t acted on. 

    So, last Autumn, we introduced a new, streamlined approach. Reports now happen faster, with a sharper focus on issues and areas for improvement. And a new team is now in place to support prison leaders directly, helping them to turn those insights into real change on the ground.  

    But if we want to build a stronger, safer Prison and Probation Service, we also need to change its culture. Getting that right really matters.  

    Positive culture is the bedrock of every great organisation. The difference between a place where people just work – and a place where they feel proud to belong. 

    And in any good organisation – any resilient, high performing team – that culture is built on trust, fairness, and mutual respect.   

    My own approach as CEO of the Timpson Group was always rooted in a culture of kindness. That meant knowing our people. Looking after them when they had a problem. And treating everyone with dignity – as equals. 

    At Timpson, we won awards for being a great company to work for. And my goal now is just as clear: to make HMPPS a world class organisation – an employer of choice.  

    The kind of place where anyone would want to work. Where staff bring their best, and achieve their best. Where they can come to work every day, knowing their friends and family would be proud. 

    That’s about much more than policy and HR processes. Alone, they won’t fix the problem. What we need is a shift in mindset. Fundamentally changing how we think, and respond, when things go wrong. 

    That brings us back to culture.  

    We need a culture where everyone feels safe to come to work. Where they know – without a doubt – that if they raise a concern, they’ll be heard. Taken seriously. And that action will follow.  

    A culture where high professional standards are modelled throughout the Service. Where we don’t just walk by when behaviour falls short – we step up and challenge it. 

    And a culture where the boundaries are crystal clear. Where there is no doubt about what constitutes unacceptable behaviour. And where there are swift, clear consequences for those who don’t play by the rules. 

    But culture can’t be imposed from above. It doesn’t come from a mission statement, or sit in a strategy. It lives in our day-to-day actions. It’s what we say. What we do. And it has to be lived, and led, by every member of staff, at every level. A shared journey. 

    If people aren’t on board with that – this isn’t the job for them. 

    There is a long road ahead. But we are laying the groundwork for this culture change, and for a safer, more professional workplace.  

    And let me just emphasise – this work is deeply important to me. I see it as a defining part of my job. 

    That starts with improving how we recruit our staff.  

    All good organisations need good people. People who can drive that culture change forward, and become leaders of the future.  

    As Jennifer outlines, that means raising the bar. It means making sure the staff we bring in don’t just have the right skills, but that they share our values – that they bring the integrity and resilience essential for the role.   

    So, we are reviewing recruitment across the whole Service. And, following a successful pilot of ‘values-based’ recruitment in Probation, we’re now looking at how we can roll this approach out across the Prison Service, too. 

    And we are also working with occupational psychologists to study the highest performing Prison officers, identifying what excellence really looks like – to bring more people like them into the Service.  

    Bringing the right people in is vital. But we also need to keep the wrong people out.  

    I’m clear – people who don’t reflect HMPPS values, who don’t have the integrity this job demands, shouldn’t be anywhere near a prison or PDU. Or anywhere else in the Service, for that matter. 

    That’s why we are strengthening vetting. Making it harder for the wrong people to get in, and easier to remove those who breach our high standards. 

    This year, we introduced online digital vetting checks, to flag people who pose a risk – whether that’s through criminal associations, so crime can’t continue behind prison walls, or through views and behaviours that go against everything we stand for, like racism, misogyny or homophobia.  

    We’re also taking the fight to corruption, through our Counter Corruption Unit. 

    Its mission is simple: to detect and prevent corruption right across the Service, and support staff to do the right thing.  

    The Unit works shoulder-to-shoulder with the police and National Crime Agency, taking a more sophisticated, joined up approach to corruption for the minority who cross the line.  

    And HMPPS has funded 20 specialist police investigators, focused on rooting out criminal behaviour. In 2024 alone, the Unit prosecuted 37 staff for involvement in corruption. 

    Finally, we are improving how we train our people.  

    Before I became a Minister, I led an Independent Review of Prison Officer Training. And while there was good work happening, it was clear that the standard seven-week basic training simply wasn’t doing enough to prepare new recruits for the reality of this incredibly tough job.  

    A more structured, longer-term approach, with higher standards might mean that we lose more people along the way. But those who stay will be better equipped – and more likely to thrive. 

    So, I’m pleased (perhaps unsurprisingly, now I’m the Minister!) –  that the review’s recommendations are now being taken forward. 

    The Enable Programme is transforming initial training, so that officers don’t just have the practical skills they need for the job – but the ethical foundations. And more subtle skills too – how to work well together, and be a great colleague. Because by investing in our people, we are investing in the future of the whole Service.   

    Taken together, these changes are a solid first step towards a safer, more professional Service.   

    And I’m grateful to Jennifer, who has agreed to continue working with us as an independent reviewer – to make sure her report is a roadmap for real, lasting change.  

    But let me finish where I started. 

    We should all be very angry that people like Jane – hardworking prison officers who we want to join and remain in the Service – have been subject to the most appalling abuse.  

    And we should all be proud to have officers like those at Frankland – who showed extraordinary courage in the face of great danger.  

    Both of these stories are part of our reality. 

    But it’s the bravery and dedication of the Frankland officers, and many like them across the Service, that should define our future. 

    I want to thank Jennifer again for her thoughtful report, the team that worked with her, and all the staff who bravely shared their experiences.  

    Professionalism is more than a policy. It’s a commitment to a culture of integrity, respect, and accountability. 

    High standards are not optional… 

    For years, others have talked the talk on zero tolerance. 

    Now this Government will walk the walk. 

    This is our moment to set a new standard for the future.  

    To build a culture we can be proud of, and a Prison and Probation Service where anybody would be proud to work. 

    Let’s get it right, and let’s do it together.  

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: John Swinney’s Programme for Government speech

    Source: Scottish National Party

    Presiding Officer,

    Tomorrow will mark one year since I was honoured to be elected as the First Minister of this country that I love.

    I spoke then of my ambition to create a vibrant economy in every part of our country, my determination to tackle the challenges faced by our beloved National Health Service, and my hope that we can come together as a Parliament, and as a country, to focus on solutions rather than allowing our disagreements to dominate.

    Over the past year, amidst real challenges, amidst deep uncertainty on the global stage, progress has been made. In ways big and small, a corner is being turned. This is a government that is working hard and determined to get Scotland on track for success.

    That progress has been evident in the way we do our business here in our Parliament. The fact that four parties were able to come together, to negotiate in good faith, and pass a budget that delivers record funding for our National Health Service, is testament to what is possible.

    Today’s Programme for Government is presented in that same spirit. It contains many of the fruits of our budget process – with elements within it that are there only because of the co-operation of other parties.

    But this is also a programme by an SNP government, a government that cares deeply about Scotland, a government that has total confidence in Scotland’s ability to rise to any challenge and to weather any storm.

    Presiding Officer, before I turn to those elements that are in the Programme for Government, I want to talk about some measures that are not included.

    With a year to go until the end of this parliament, there are clearly, limits on the amount of legislation we can present. This government – and I personally – remain entirely committed to tackling misogynistic abuse against women. Regrettably I do not believe there is sufficient parliamentary time to make progress through a standalone Bill which I would plan to bring forward at the start of the next Parliament. We will however take the action we can in this Parliament by adding sex as a protected characteristic to existing hate crimes legislation to protect women and girls and by taking further steps in our policy, to tackle unacceptable abuse of women and girls in our society.

    Conversion Practices that seek to change or suppress a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity are harmful and abusive. Over this coming year, we will seek to work with the United Kingdom government to deliver a legislative ban across England, Wales and Scotland. But if agreement is not possible, we will publish legislation in the first year of the next parliamentary term. Members of the LGBTQI+ community should have no doubt that we will work with them to protect and to defend their rights.

    Times are tough, presiding oofficer and times are changing, in ways that I know bring real anxiety to our citizens, real fear to many in our business community. But my promise to the people of Scotland is that amidst the uncertainty there is one thing they can be sure of: this is a government that will always seek to do what is best for Scotland. As First Minister, I will always put the needs and interests, the hopes and dreams of the people of Scotland first.

    When I became First Minister a year ago, I heard loud and clear people’s concerns about the health of Scotland’s NHS.

    They would tell me about their many positive experiences of high-quality care from the dedicated staff in the NHS, experiences of treatment and care that are, invariably, world class. But they also spoke of difficulties accessing that care. Waiting times that were unacceptable, adding to anxiety. Systems that they felt did not put patients first.

    Presiding officer, there are many issues that compete on a daily basis for the attention of a First Minister, but what could be more important than our National Health Service?

    So I am proud that the £30 million that we committed has not just delivered the 64,000 additional NHS appointments and procedures between April 2024 and the end of January 2025 that we promised, but over 40,000 more than planned. An extra 105,000 vital, additional appointments and procedures that are helping to reduce waiting lists and waiting times. We have met the children and adolescents’ mental health waiting time standards, with over 90 per cent now seen within 18 weeks of their referral.

    More cancer patients are now treated faster. Compared with a decade ago, 16 per cent more patients receive care within the 31-day standard and 11 per cent more within the 62-day standard.

    Statistics, yes, but behind each one a person who has received the sort of reliable and effective care from the National Health Service that they deserve.

    Progress, yes, but with a very clear understanding that there is more, much more to do.

    And that is why a renewed and stronger NHS is at the very heart of this Programme for Government.

    Getting our NHS on track is about reform that is fundamentally patient-centred, it is about investment, and it’s about increasing productivity and capacity.

    This approach makes it possible for us to deliver more than 150,000 extra appointments and procedures in 2025-26.  

    The additional investment secured through the Scottish budget will enable us to expand specialist regional centres; technology will mean more efficient use of operating theatres. The result, a 50 per cent increase in the number of surgical procedures we can deliver compared with last year. 

    There will be a renewed focus on cancer diagnosis and treatment, targeted investment so that health boards can clear backlogs and substantially improve waiting times.

    Presiding officer, I could spend the whole statement just talking about the steps we are taking to access the National Health Service, but before moving on, I will highlight one other area that I know is of particular concern for many people.  

    While many people’s experience of their GP is excellent, for many others there is deep frustration over the difficulty making appointments and what has been described as the 8am lottery.

    This is of central importance to me. That is why we are acting to reduce pressure and increase capacity in the system, so that it is easier for people to get the care that they need, when they need it.

    That includes in the year ahead a further expansion of Pharmacy First services – with pharmacies being the right first port of call for many ailments.  

    But it also means the delivery of an extra 100,000 appointments in GP surgeries focused on key risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and smoking.  

    This year, primary care, including GPs, is receiving a bigger share of new NHS funding, and we are committed to not only increasing GP numbers but protecting Scotland’s advantage which means substantially more GPs per head in Scotland compared to elsewhere in the United Kingdom.

    Presiding officer, members across the chamber will know that, alongside the NHS, our constituents are also deeply exercised by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. We have experienced a decade and more of financial insecurity, higher prices and squeezed real incomes. Life feels substantially tougher for very many of those that we serve.

    The economy means jobs, growth and investment, and I will talk about all of these elements.  

    But above all, the economy is about people’s quality of life, it is about their own household budget, their ability to pay the bills.  

    This Scottish government will always do what it can to deliver the best deal for the people of Scotland. In concrete terms that means a commitment to keep Council Tax bills – already over 30 per cent lower on average in Scotland than in England – substantially lower than elsewhere in the UK.

    Water bills – already 20 per cent lower than in England – will remain lower, as will income tax for the majority of workers in Scotland.  

    Prescriptions will continue to be free here in Scotland.

    Eye appointments, free. 

    Bus travel for young, disabled and older people in Scotland – free.  

    Scotland will continue to pay no tuition fees.   

    Parents will continue to benefit from a package of early learning and childcare worth more than £6000 for every eligible child.  

    Free school meals, which save the average family £400 per child per year, will be expanded, and more breakfast clubs introduced.  

    Together, this is my cost-of-living guarantee. A package that year on year delivers savings for the people of Scotland, a package that exists nowhere else in the United Kingdom.  

    And, Presiding Officer, it is a package of cost-of-living support that we are always looking to enhance where we can.  

    That is why we took the decision in the budget to restore a winter fuel payment for Scottish pensioners, with the poorest receiving the most. Those payments will be made this year.   

    And it is why we are committed to doing even more.

    Last year, in the face of severe budget pressures, we took the difficult decision to end the peak fares pilot on our railways.

    But now, given the work that we have done to get Scotland’s finances in a stronger position, and hearing also the calls from commuters, from climate activists and from the business community, I can confirm that, from the 1st of September this year, peak rail fares in Scotland will be scrapped for good.  

    A decision that will put more money in people’s pockets and mean less CO2 is pumped into our skies.   

    Once again, tens of thousands of Scots saving money.  

    Once again, a better deal for people because they live in Scotland.  

    Better for Scots because there is a government that always strives for what is best for Scotland.  

    Alongside the cost-of-living pressures – the consequence of a series of body blows from austerity and Brexit to the spike in inflation and energy costs that followed Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine – new threats are emerging that have the potential to cause extensive damage to the Scottish economy.  

    Tariffs will impact directly on many Scottish exporters to the United States, while a US recession and a global trade war, will have effects direct and indirect on almost every sector of our economy. 

    Presiding officer, this Programme for Government has been published earlier than usual, in part because it allows a clear year of delivery on the NHS and other public services, delivery in those areas that matter in the day-to-day lives of our citizens. But it is also being published now because of the scale of the looming economic challenge that we face.   

    For the sake of Scottish jobs, for the sake of protecting people’s quality of life, we are taking new steps, accelerating action, to ensure Scotland’s economy is better placed to ride the economic storms.  

    Members will see the detailed and extensive section on the economy in the Programme for Government document, with action on planning reform, skills, housing investment, support for our rural economy including our vital food and drink sector, promotion of Scotland the brand and more. But I want to highlight three particular initiatives designed to respond directly and specifically to the challenges we now face.  

    First, working with Scottish Development International across their 34 international offices, we will deliver a new 6-point Export Plan, to enable Scottish exporters to diversify and to grow markets. This includes:  

    • more support for SME’s to participate in trade missions in both established and emerging markets; 
    • additional grant funding to help companies unlock specific, targeted international growth; and, 
    • bespoke support in key sectors – technology, life sciences, renewables and hydrogen – to maximise international opportunities.

    Second, to enable emerging Scottish companies to grow, we will create a new Proof of Concept fund, with a focus on supporting the commercialisation of research projects with significant economic potential. We will deliver an improved Ecosystem fund to further enhance Scotland’s already effective start-up environment, including action to transform the number of women who start and scale up businesses.

    We must not forget, even amidst the gathering clouds, that Scotland is an innovative nation, and that opportunities exist which can deliver real and significant benefits now and in the future. This government will prepare for the challenges but we also seek to position Scotland to make the most of the many and significant economic opportunities that still exist.   

    Third, we will deepen our commitment to a just transition and an industrial future for Scotland. As members will be aware, the Deputy First Minister is actively engaging with potential investors to ensure a green industrial future for the Grangemouth site. A key element in the success of this work is the development of carbon capture in Scotland, which is why it is now vital that the UK government provides support not only to carbon capture projects in England, but also to the Acorn project in Scotland’s northeast.

    The Scottish Government has previously committed up to £80 million to make this happen if the UK Government, in turn, made the commitments necessary for the project to progress. Given the importance of this project for the Scottish economy, given its place at the very heart of the green reindustrialisation that is my ambition, and I trust the ambition of all parties in this chamber, my government is now willing, as part of a wider package of investment in industrial transformation, to remove that cap and increase the amount of Scottish funding that is available to make Acorn a reality should the project be given the go ahead by the United Kingdom Government. 

    I know that many in this chamber share my concern that Scotland is little more than an afterthought to a UK government that is willing to invest in a supercomputer in the southeast of England, weeks after cancelling the supercomputer for Edinburgh. A UK government that moved heaven and earth to save Scunthorpe but will not do the same for Grangemouth. Perhaps with swift action from the UK Government to support Acorn, which in turn will help us deliver the future that Grangemouth deserves, the Prime Minister will do the right thing by Grangemouth.

    Presiding officer, working to deliver a stronger NHS, giving the people of Scotland the best cost-of-living support of any part of the UK, and action to protect Scotland’s economy and maximise our economic potential in the face of global challenges, this is a government with what is best for Scotland at its heart.  

    Since becoming First Minister last year, I have sought to focus government efforts on four central priorities.   

    We seek a wealthier Scotland, higher standards of living for the people of Scotland, with action to grow Scotland’s economy.

    A fairer Scotland, with Scotland’s growing wealth shared more fairly so that we can remove the scourge of child poverty in our land.  

    A greener Scotland, with action to maximize the benefits felt by the people of Scotland from our renewable energy wealth, benefits in terms of lower bills and well-paid jobs, and action to reduce emissions and protect and restore our stunning natural environment.  

    And we seek public services that meet, and indeed exceed, the expectations of the people of Scotland. Have no doubt, many already do. But where action is needed to reform and renew, this government will take it.   

    Progress for Scotland underpins each of our priorities and is at the heart of everything we will do.   

    I want a Scotland that we can be proud of, a Scotland that is the best it can possibly be. 

    That ambition is what gets me up every single morning.  

    And, at the very heart of that, is the eradication of child poverty. 

    Last year, when I presented my Programme for Government, I referred to the eradication of child poverty as the moral compass of my government.  It remains so. It will until there is no single child left in poverty in Scotland.   

    It is also, I said, the greatest investment in our country’s future that we can possibly make. 

    And in these times of cost-of-living pressures, that investment becomes ever more important, for these things disproportionately hurt our society’s poorest.   

    That is why, over the course of this Parliament, we increased the Scottish Child Payment from the original proposal that was put to us of a £5 payment to £27.15 and created a broader package of family payments which can be worth roughly £25,000 by age 16.  

    Our policies are making a difference. On average, the lowest income households with children are estimated to be £2,600 a year better off this year as result of Scottish Government policies. By 2029-30 it is expected to grow to an average of £3,700.

    The proportion of children living in relative poverty has reached its lowest level since 2014-15, and Scotland is making deeper, quicker progress here than in the rest of the UK.

    And while the Joseph Rowntree Foundation predicts child poverty will rise in other parts of the UK by 2029, policies such as our Scottish Child Payment, and our commitment to end the cruel two-child limit, “are behind Scotland bucking the trend”.

    But if we want to truly eradicate child poverty in Scotland, we must go further, and I recognise that. We are taking the steps to lift the two-child limit and remain on track to deliver this measure to lift more children out of poverty next April.

    It is also about making sure that public services are more joined up in their response, more family- and person-centred, so that vulnerable families receive the focused help they need rather than simply the help that is available.  

    And, in the coming year, we will consult on, develop, and publish a Tackling Child Poverty Delivery Plan for 2026-31 – outlining the actions we will take with our partners for low-income families across Scotland to keep us on the journey to meet our poverty reduction targets for 2030. I can assure members that this will focus on reducing household costs, boosting incomes through social security, and helping more people into fair and sustainable jobs. All of which play a central part in tackling not only the symptoms but the root causes of poverty in our society.  

    Presiding officer,  

    There is always much more that we are doing than can be mentioned in a short parliamentary statement. 

    I would encourage members, and their constituents, to read the Programme for Government with care.  

    They will see our ongoing commitment to achieving net zero by 2045. Action to maximize the environmental and economic benefits from our vast renewable energy wealth. Steps to decarbonise heating and further decarbonise our transport network.  

    To give just one example, I am proud that we have achieved our target of installing 6,000 public charge points for electric vehicles – 2 years ahead of schedule. But more is needed, which is why, in the year ahead, we will introduce a new rural and island EV infrastructure grant, supporting our commitment to approximately 24,000 additional public electric vehicle charge points by 2030.  

    They will notice the priority we are giving to the ABCs of education, with action in partnership with local government, parents, carers, pupils and schools, to raise attainment and address problems of attendance, to tackle head on behavioural challenges in our classrooms and reform the curriculum so that young Scots are fully equipped to meet the challenges and seize the opportunities of this new age.  

    There is action to help regenerate our town centres.  

    Investment in thousands of new homes.  

    Record funding for the culture sector.  

    New protections for renters.  

    Expansion of dental provision.  

    A focus on additional support needs in our schools and much, much more.  

    Presiding officer, it is a Programme for Government, but also a programme for a better Scotland.   

    A programme for a stronger NHS, for a more resilient Scotland, for a wealthier Scotland.  

    Centred on delivery, providing hope, it is a programme that seeks what is best for Scotland, a Programme for Government that gets our nation on track for success. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: EIA expects lower crude oil prices and higher natural gas prices through 2026

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    U.S. ENERGY INFORMATION ADMINISTRATION
    WASHINGTON DC 20585

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    May 6, 2025

    The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) expects recent developments in global trade policy and oil production to contribute to lower global demand for petroleum products through 2026, contributing to lower oil prices than it previously forecast.

    In its May Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO), EIA also forecasts natural gas prices to increase from historic lows in 2024.

    U.S. energy market indicators 2024 2025 2026
    Brent crude oil spot price (dollars per barrel) $81 $66 $59
    Retail gasoline price (dollars per gallon) $3.30 $3.10 $3.10
    U.S. crude oil production (million barrels per day) 13.2 13.4 13.5
    Natural gas price at Henry Hub (dollars per million British thermal units) $2.20 $4.10 $4.80
    U.S. liquefied natural gas gross exports (billion cubic feet per day) 12 15 16
    Shares of U.S. electricity generation       
    Natural gas 42% 40% 40%
    Coal 16% 16% 15%
    Renewables 23% 25% 27%
    Nuclear 19% 19% 19%
    U.S. GDP (percentage change) 2.8% 1.5% 1.6%
    U.S. CO2 emissions (billion metric tons) 4.8 4.8 4.7
    Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Short-Term Energy Outlook, May 2025
    Note: Values in this table are rounded and may not match values in other tables in this report.

    Some key highlights from the May STEO include:

    • Oil supply, demand, and prices: EIA expects the Brent crude oil price to average about $66 per barrel in 2025 and about $59 per barrel in 2026, both significantly lower than the 2024 average of $81 per barrel.
    • Compared with the January STEO—the first STEO to include forecasts for 2026—EIA’s current forecast for global petroleum demand is about 500,000 barrels per day lower. EIA expects lower demand for petroleum products—such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel—along with increased oil production will lead to a generally oversupplied oil market, pushing oil prices down; EIA’s May forecast for 2026 oil prices is $8 per barrel lower than its January forecast.
    • As with all EIA forecasts, its forecast for crude oil prices is highly uncertain, specifically related to possible changes in U.S. and global crude oil production and petroleum demand trends. Notably, EIA concluded this forecast on May 1, which was before the latest OPEC+ meeting, on May 3.
    • U.S. ethane: China waived a 125% tariff on U.S. ethane imports it levied in early April. The tariff removal led EIA to expect strong growth in U.S. ethane production and exports. EIA expects the United States to produce nearly 3 million barrels per day of ethane this year and slightly more than 3 million barrels per day of ethane next year, up from 2.8 million barrels per day in 2024. Most of this growth in U.S. ethane production will be exported to supply growing international demand.
    • Natural gas prices: EIA expects natural gas prices to increase to about $4.20 per million British thermal units (MMBtu) on average in the third quarter of 2025. That price is about 80 cents per MMBtu higher than the April average and almost double the price from last year.
    • Electricity generation: EIA expects the U.S. power sector to generate 2% more electricity this year than it did in 2024, but generation from U.S. natural gas-fired power plants declines by 3% in the agency’s forecast, partially driven by rising natural gas prices. EIA expects rising natural gas prices to also contribute to a 6% increase in coal-fired generation.
    • U.S. solar generation continues to increase the most in electricity generation in the STEO forecast, increasing by 34% in 2025 and 18% in 2026.
    • Coal markets: With U.S. coal-fired power plants generating more electricity this year, EIA now expects U.S. coal production to total more than 500 million short tons in 2025, an upward revision from the April forecast.
    • Trade policy assumptions: The U.S. macroeconomic outlook EIA uses in the Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO) is based on S&P Global’s macroeconomic model. S&P Global’s most recent model reflects the tariffs announced on April 2, but the model was finalized prior to the temporary 90-day tariff suspension granted to certain countries. As a result, EIA’s macroeconomic forecast assumes significantly lower tariffs on China’s products than are currently in place and significantly higher tariffs on countries subject to the 90-day temporary suspension. These differences in tariff rates likely have offsetting effects on the macroeconomic forecast.

    The full May 2025 Short-Term Energy Outlook is available on the EIA website.

    The product described in this press release was prepared by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the statistical and analytical agency within the U.S. Department of Energy. By law, EIA’s data, analysis, and forecasts are independent of approval by any other officer or employee of the U.S. government. The views in the product and this press release therefore should not be construed as representing those of the U.S. Department of Energy or other federal agencies.

    EIA Program Contact: Tim Hess, STEO@eia.gov
    EIA Press Contact: Chris Higginbotham, EIAMedia@eia.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: EIA expects lower crude oil prices and higher natural gas prices through 2026

    Source: US Energy Information Administration – EIA

    Headline: EIA expects lower crude oil prices and higher natural gas prices through 2026

    U.S. ENERGY INFORMATION ADMINISTRATION
    WASHINGTON DC 20585

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    May 6, 2025

    The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) expects recent developments in global trade policy and oil production to contribute to lower global demand for petroleum products through 2026, contributing to lower oil prices than it previously forecast.

    In its May Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO), EIA also forecasts natural gas prices to increase from historic lows in 2024.

    U.S. energy market indicators 2024 2025 2026
    Brent crude oil spot price (dollars per barrel) $81 $66 $59
    Retail gasoline price (dollars per gallon) $3.30 $3.10 $3.10
    U.S. crude oil production (million barrels per day) 13.2 13.4 13.5
    Natural gas price at Henry Hub (dollars per million British thermal units) $2.20 $4.10 $4.80
    U.S. liquefied natural gas gross exports (billion cubic feet per day) 12 15 16
    Shares of U.S. electricity generation       
    Natural gas 42% 40% 40%
    Coal 16% 16% 15%
    Renewables 23% 25% 27%
    Nuclear 19% 19% 19%
    U.S. GDP (percentage change) 2.8% 1.5% 1.6%
    U.S. CO2 emissions (billion metric tons) 4.8 4.8 4.7
    Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Short-Term Energy Outlook, May 2025
    Note: Values in this table are rounded and may not match values in other tables in this report.

    Some key highlights from the May STEO include:

    • Oil supply, demand, and prices: EIA expects the Brent crude oil price to average about $66 per barrel in 2025 and about $59 per barrel in 2026, both significantly lower than the 2024 average of $81 per barrel.
    • Compared with the January STEO—the first STEO to include forecasts for 2026—EIA’s current forecast for global petroleum demand is about 500,000 barrels per day lower. EIA expects lower demand for petroleum products—such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel—along with increased oil production will lead to a generally oversupplied oil market, pushing oil prices down; EIA’s May forecast for 2026 oil prices is $8 per barrel lower than its January forecast.
    • As with all EIA forecasts, its forecast for crude oil prices is highly uncertain, specifically related to possible changes in U.S. and global crude oil production and petroleum demand trends. Notably, EIA concluded this forecast on May 1, which was before the latest OPEC+ meeting, on May 3.
    • U.S. ethane: China waived a 125% tariff on U.S. ethane imports it levied in early April. The tariff removal led EIA to expect strong growth in U.S. ethane production and exports. EIA expects the United States to produce nearly 3 million barrels per day of ethane this year and slightly more than 3 million barrels per day of ethane next year, up from 2.8 million barrels per day in 2024. Most of this growth in U.S. ethane production will be exported to supply growing international demand.
    • Natural gas prices: EIA expects natural gas prices to increase to about $4.20 per million British thermal units (MMBtu) on average in the third quarter of 2025. That price is about 80 cents per MMBtu higher than the April average and almost double the price from last year.
    • Electricity generation: EIA expects the U.S. power sector to generate 2% more electricity this year than it did in 2024, but generation from U.S. natural gas-fired power plants declines by 3% in the agency’s forecast, partially driven by rising natural gas prices. EIA expects rising natural gas prices to also contribute to a 6% increase in coal-fired generation.
    • U.S. solar generation continues to increase the most in electricity generation in the STEO forecast, increasing by 34% in 2025 and 18% in 2026.
    • Coal markets: With U.S. coal-fired power plants generating more electricity this year, EIA now expects U.S. coal production to total more than 500 million short tons in 2025, an upward revision from the April forecast.
    • Trade policy assumptions: The U.S. macroeconomic outlook EIA uses in the Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO) is based on S&P Global’s macroeconomic model. S&P Global’s most recent model reflects the tariffs announced on April 2, but the model was finalized prior to the temporary 90-day tariff suspension granted to certain countries. As a result, EIA’s macroeconomic forecast assumes significantly lower tariffs on China’s products than are currently in place and significantly higher tariffs on countries subject to the 90-day temporary suspension. These differences in tariff rates likely have offsetting effects on the macroeconomic forecast.

    The full May 2025 Short-Term Energy Outlook is available on the EIA website.

    The product described in this press release was prepared by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the statistical and analytical agency within the U.S. Department of Energy. By law, EIA’s data, analysis, and forecasts are independent of approval by any other officer or employee of the U.S. government. The views in the product and this press release therefore should not be construed as representing those of the U.S. Department of Energy or other federal agencies.

    EIA Program Contact: Tim Hess, STEO@eia.gov
    EIA Press Contact: Chris Higginbotham, EIAMedia@eia.gov

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Conflict, Hunger and International Humanitarian Law Handbook Launch: Lord Collins’ speech

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Conflict, Hunger and International Humanitarian Law Handbook Launch: Lord Collins’ speech

    The Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, Lord Collins of Highbury, launched the Conflict, Hunger and International Humanitarian Law Handbook

    Good morning.

    It’s great to see you all.

    Welcome to the Foreign Office.

    For those of us lucky enough to have all the comforts we need in life it is hard to imagine how it feels to have no choice but to go without food or be forced to eat what hardly nourishes the soul and the body.

    Sadly, the heart breaking reality is that millions of people today suffer from an extreme lack of food and are acutely malnourished due to conflicts.

    This cannot go on and the UK is determined to act.

    Part of the answer is providing clarity on what the law is and how we can comply with it. 

    That is why I’m privileged to be launching a new handbook to promote compliance with International Humanitarian Law and its critical role in addressing hunger in armed conflict.

    Improving food security and nutrition are not just part of my job, I’m personally invested in this mission. 

    Before joining the government last July, I served as a shadow minister for a decade, where I was focused on driving up the global agenda on nutrition.

    Earlier this year, the World Food Programme and Food and Agriculture Organization warned that conflict has increased acute food insecurity in 17 countries, affecting as many as 175 million people across the world.

    Many of these people have been suffering for years, trapped in never-ending conflicts.

    Sadly Gaza is the example we think of most.

    Almost the whole of Gaza is facing emergency levels of food insecurity, including Gaza’s one million children. The World Food Programme’s stocks have run out.

    That is why together with our partners, we are denouncing the two-month long block on humanitarian aid and calling on Israel to immediately restart a rapid and unimpeded flow of lifesaving help.

    It is hard to believe now that merely two decades ago the international community had confined famines to history.

    Yet over the last decade we have seen a sizeable increase in the number and severity of conflicts.

    Climate change and economic shocks have only compounded the problem.

    In eastern DRC, hunger and malnutrition are at record levels and growing.

    Trade routes and food production have been severely disrupted, and humanitarian access is limited.

    Through our humanitarian programme, we have helped three and a half million people last year and are working flat out to reach as many people as we can.

    And the United Kingdom has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and withdrawal of all Rwandan Defence Forces from Congolese territory. I am hoping that there is positive news from discussions last weekend but the situation is dire.

    If we turn to Sudan, we see farms, food markets, and water treatment facilities being destroyed by the conflict and the siege of El Fasher is causing immense suffering.

    Last month the Foreign Secretary co-hosted the Sudan Conference in London urging the warring parties to allow unrestricted humanitarian access, protect civilians and end the conflict.

    The United Kingdom is providing a further £120 million to deliver lifesaving food and nutrition supplies, including for vulnerable children at risk of wasting – a lifelong condition that will affect the ability for economic development and growth.

    It is a failure of the international system that babies and young children in conflict settings frequently suffer and die due to acute malnutrition.

    Last year at the G20, the Prime Minster launched the Joint UN Initiative for the Prevention of Wasting to help find the best ways to prevent malnutrition and save lives.

    All of these initiatives show that despite cuts to the UK’s development budget, the UK remains fully committed to playing a key humanitarian role globally.

    And this handbook is a key part of our global mission to improve compliance with international humanitarian law.

    The landmark United Nations Security Council resolution 2417, adopted in 2018, made hunger in conflict a political issue, and rightly so.

    Because famines are significantly less like to occur if all warring parties comply with international humanitarian law.

    Now, while not all causes of hunger are violations of this law, many rules are of course crucial in avoiding hunger and malnutrition.

    Our Handbook provides clear information on the law and how to follow it, with suggestions for good practices.

    Indeed, the Handbook firmly backs the agenda set out in that Security Council Resolution.

    By helping parties comply with the law.

    By making policy discussions more informed.

    And by equipping partners with the necessary information to promote compliance with the law.

    So I’m pleased to share that from today, the Handbook is free and publicly available.

    We will soon be rolling it out throughout the government and our diplomatic missions.

    I hope that you and partners across the world will use it in your mission to tackle food insecurity in armed conflicts.

    This week, as we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day and reflect on the peace and freedoms we cherish, the international community must redouble its commitment to end the scourge of conflict and hunger.

    Because change is only possible when all of us, all of us, work together as one team.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: TSplus Launches Subscription Licensing for All Products, Offering Greater Flexibility and New Revenue Opportunities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PARIS, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TSplus, a leading provider of secure remote access and application delivery solutions, is proud to announce the official launch of subscription licensing as an additional purchase option across its entire product range. This major update, now available on the TSplus online stores and reflected in the License Portal, marks a strategic enhancement to how customers and partners can access TSplus software.

    TSplus Subscription: An Additional Option, Not a Replacement

    For years, TSplus has offered perpetual licenses, which remain unchanged and will continue to be available as the standard choice for those who prefer one-time purchases. Now, customers and partners can also opt for flexible subscription-based licenses, tailored to meet the evolving needs of businesses of all sizes – particularly startups, SaaS providers, hosting companies, and organizations seeking to reduce upfront investment.

    Importantly, subscriptions can be mixed with permanent licenses on the same server. For example, a Remote Access license can be perpetual, while 2FA is activated via a subscription.

    “This is not a replacement, but an expansion,” said François Stoop, International Sales Director at TSplus. “By adding subscriptions, we’re empowering our partners with new ways to serve diverse customer profiles while tapping into a stream of recurring revenue.”

    The move comes in response to growing demand from partners and clients looking for more adaptable software purchasing models. With this change, TSplus Remote Access, Remote Support, Server Monitoring, and other core solutions are now available either as permanent licenses or through monthly/annual subscriptions.

    And, subscriptions are compatible with all current product versions, including all supported LTS versions.

    Key Benefits of TSplus Subscription Licensing

    Why choose a TSplus Subscription? To enjoy more flexibility and scalability:

    • More flexibility: Ideal for dynamic environments or short-term projects.
    • Lower upfront costs: Pay as you go without large capital expenditure.
    • Scalable plans: Adjust licensing as business needs evolve.
    • Recurring revenue: For partners, subscriptions open new opportunities to build sustainable income.

    TSplus has published a comprehensive FAQ that answers common questions about subscriptions, compatibility, mixing license types, and more:
    TSplus Subscription FAQ

    This update is supported by significant changes to the TSplus purchasing interface ensuring a smooth experience for users who choose the subscription route, and fully integrated into the License management portal, where a dedicated “Subscription” tab makes it easy for customers and partners to manage their new licenses.

    As of yesterday, 5th of May, subscription licensing is available directly on TSplus product pages. With the rollout now complete, TSplus has also published its updated 2025 pricing (see PDF).

    To learn more about our partner offering, visit https://tsplus.net/partner-program/ , or log in to your partner portal to explore the new licensing options.

    About TSplus

    TSplus provides secure remote access, application delivery, and IT infrastructure management solutions to businesses and organizations worldwide. With a strong presence in over 140 countries and more than 500,000 deployments, TSplus helps companies of all sizes reduce IT complexity, enhance productivity, and enable secure digital workspaces. TSplus products are designed for flexibility, scalability, and ease of use — empowering partners and customers with cost-effective alternatives to traditional remote desktop technologies.

    Press Contact

    Caleb Zaharris

    Marketing Director at TSplus

    Caleb.zaharris@tsplus.net

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f0523bfd-0591-4e3f-9c70-e2d6a67dc04d

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Alzheimer’s: certain combinations of prescription drugs may slow progression of the disease, says mice study

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Silvia Maioli, Associate professor and Principal Researcher, Neurobiology, Karolinska Institutet

    Certain prescription drugs combinations had different effects on the mice. roger ashford/ Shutterstock

    Millions of older adults take five or more prescription drugs every day to manage chronic illnesses. While polypharmacy is often necessary, this practice has also been linked to many negative health outcomes in older adults – including memory problems, increased risk of falls and greater frailty.

    The most common prescription drugs involved in polypharmacy are those used to treat conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and depression. Importantly, these same conditions are also known risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease.

    This raises an important question: could polypharmacy have any influence on the progression of Alzheimer’s disease?

    Our recent research in mice suggests that certain prescription drugs combinations might actually have a positive effect on memory and signs of Alzheimer’s disease. However, these effects appeared to differ depending on whether the mouse was male or female.

    To better understand how polypharmacy may affect Alzheimer’s disease, we designed an experiment using mice that were genetically altered to develop Alzheimer’s-like brain changes. These mice had amyloid plaques – clumps of protein in the brain that, with time, are linked with memory loss and considered a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease .

    We tested two different combinations of five commonly prescribed drugs, including: analgesics (painkillers), antithrombotics (to prevent blood clots), lipid-modifying agents (such as statins, which lower cholestrol), beta-blockers (which help controlling arrythmias and hypertension) and Ace inhibitors (used to treat cardiovascular conditions), as well as antidepressants.

    Both groups of mice were given paracetamol, aspirin, an antidepressant, a statin and a blood pressure drug. The only differences between the two groups were the specific types of statin and cardiovascular drugs used. The first group were given simvastatin and metoprolol, while the second group was given atorvastatin and enalapril.

    We gave these prescription drug combinations to both male and female mice. We then tested their memory, examined their brains for signs of disease and analysed blood samples for disease-related markers.

    Our findings showed that polypharmacy has both positive and negative effects on Alzheimer’s disease progression. The effects largely depended on which specific drug combinations were used as well as the sex of the mice.

    The first drug combination had beneficial effects in male mice. These mice showed better memory, reduced signs of Alzheimer’s pathology in the brain (such as the number and size of amyloid plaques) and fewer signs of the disease in their blood. This suggested that polypharmacy delayed the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

    In females, however, the same combination had very little to no effect on signs and symptoms of the disease.

    But for the mice in the second combination group, the results were different. The benefits previously seen in males disappeared. In female mice, their memory worsened.

    Certain drug combinations reduced signs of Alzheimer’s disease in the male mice’s brains, such as the size and number of amyloid plaques.
    nobeastsofierce/ Shutterstock

    We also looked at what happened when some of the drugs were taken on their own. In some cases, they had beneficial effects for the female mice – improving memory and signs of Alzheimer’s disease in the brain. For instance, the statin simvastatin improved memory and reduced signs of brain inflammation in female mice when the drug was taken on its own.

    Polypharmacy and brain health

    These results show how complex the effects of polypharmacy can be, especially in the context of a brain disease such as Alzheimer’s. They also suggest that men and women may respond differently to certain drug combinations.

    This is not surprising. Biological sex is known to influence how drugs are absorbed and metabolised and their effect on the body. When it comes to polypharmacy, these differences can become more pronounced, having an even stronger effect on drug safety and efficacy.

    This could partly help explain why the same drug combinations had very different effects in the male and female mice in our study. Other possible explanations for why certain drug combinations only improved signs and symptoms of the disease in male mice include sex differences in hormone levels and differences in immune responses that may influence how drugs work in the brain. Understanding these mechanisms will be key to tailoring safer and more effective treatments for the disease.

    Our study confirms that current, universal prescribing approaches for older adults may not be ideal.

    It’s also worth noting that older women are more likely to be polypharmacy users compared to men. This highlights the importance of understanding the effects of polypharmacy that are specific to men and women, and developing more personalised prescribing approaches.

    Future translational studies (from mice to humans) looking at how drug combinations affect Alzheimer’s in males and females are also warranted to help reduce risks and improve healthcare in the ageing population.

    The global population is continuing to age, which means that an even greater number of people are going to be at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. This is why it’s so important we understand all of the causes of the disease and how it can be prevented.

    Silvia Maioli receives funding from The Swedish Research Council, Alzheimerfonden, King Gustaf V:s and Queen Victorias Foundation, The private initiative “Innovative ways to fight Alzheimer´s disease – Leif Lundblad Family and others”, Margaretha af Ugglas Foundation, The regional agreement on medical training and clinical research (ALF) between Stockholm County Council and Karolinska Institutet, Gun och Bertil Stohnes Stiftelse, Stiftelsen Gamla Tjänarinnor

    Francesca Eroli received funding from Stiftelsen För Gamla Tjänarinnor and Gun och Bertil Stohnes Stiftelse.

    – ref. Alzheimer’s: certain combinations of prescription drugs may slow progression of the disease, says mice study – https://theconversation.com/alzheimers-certain-combinations-of-prescription-drugs-may-slow-progression-of-the-disease-says-mice-study-254243

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Launches No-KYC Crypto Trading Platform with 100x Leverage and $100 Bonus

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    As the global demand for high-performance crypto trading platforms surges, BexBack, a fast-growing cryptocurrency derivatives exchange, is redefining access and opportunity for traders worldwide. With a commitment to no-KYC onboarding, up to 100x leverage, and generous promotions including a 100% deposit bonus and $100 trading bonus, BexBack is quickly emerging as a trusted platform for both seasoned investors and new entrants in the crypto space.

    Founded in Singapore and operating globally with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the U.S., and the U.K., BexBack is a FinCEN-registered MSB (Money Services Business), ensuring compliance with U.S. regulations while offering users privacy, speed, and freedom.

    “At BexBack, we believe crypto trading should be fast, secure, and accessible to everyone—regardless of where they live or what ID they have,” said Amanda, Business Manager at BexBack. “That’s why we offer no-KYC registration and tools that empower users to trade freely in today’s volatile markets.”

    Key Features That Set BexBack Apart:

    • 100x Leverage: Trade BTC, ETH, ADA, XRP, SOL, and over 50 other crypto futures with maximum capital efficiency.
    • No KYC Required: Users can register and start trading with just an email—no personal data needed.
    • Zero Spread: Transparent pricing with no hidden costs between buy/sell.
    • $100 Trading Bonus: Available to new users who deposit ≥ 0.01 BTC or 1000 USDT and complete their first trade.
    • 100% Deposit Bonus: Double your capital—bonus can be used as margin to expand trading power.
    • Demo Account: Practice risk-free with 10 BTC or 1M USDT in virtual funds.
    • 24/7 Global Support: Multi-language assistance and live chat available around the clock.
    • Robust Security: Multi-signature cold wallets, SSL encryption, 2FA, and DDoS protection safeguard user assets.
    • Fair Price Index: BexBack’s pricing is based on real-time data from Binance, Bybit, OKX, Bitget, and Kraken.

    A Platform Designed for Every Trader

    Whether you’re just beginning your crypto journey or you’re an experienced trader seeking greater privacy and performance, BexBack delivers a complete ecosystem tailored to your needs. Its intuitive interface, mobile compatibility, and educational resources make it accessible, while its high-leverage infrastructure attracts professionals aiming to capitalize on short-term market movements.

    Start Trading Today

    If you missed the previous crypto bull run, this could be your chance. With BexBack’s 100x leverage and 100% deposit bonus and $50 bonus for new users (complete one trade within one week of registration), you can be a winner in the new bull run.

    Sign up on BexBack now, claim your exclusive bonus and start accumulating more BTC today!

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.

    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e3067e8f-9b47-40a1-9ef2-f678f5f0d9d3

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/79202373-df68-4789-a5aa-092b370b1356

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4209e972-4590-4201-84d0-104e90226b42

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Calyx Celebrates 35 Years of Innovation with PATH: The Industry’s Most Advanced All-in-One Mortgage Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With over 30 years of innovation, Calyx has been at the forefront of mortgage technology, transforming how loans are originated, processed, and closed. Today, the company cements its legacy with PATH—the TRUE cloud-native loan origination system (LOS), enabling lenders to thrive in an era where speed and scalability are non-negotiable. PATH isn’t just software—it’s a revolution in mortgage lending. Built from the ground up in the cloud and battle-tested by hundreds of lenders. PATH is Calyx’s crowning achievement—a comprehensive end-to-end platform that eliminates bottlenecks, enhances agility, and provides the tools necessary to outpace competitors in today’s fast-changing market.

    “Path is the culmination of three decades of Calyx’s DNA: innovation without compromise,” said Joy Ziminskas, Director of Sales & Business Development at Calyx Software. “While others cling to outdated systems, we’ve spent the last ten years perfecting a cloud-native LOS built for the modern lending landscape. If you’re not on PATH, you’re already falling behind.”

    Why PATH Transforms Mortgage Lending

    • True Cloud-Native Architecture: Maximize uptime with silent updates, device-independent access, and elastic scalability that adapts to your business needs.
    • Seamless Compliance & Reporting: Effortlessly generate HMDA, ULDD, and MCR reports, ensuring audit readiness and streamlined regulatory compliance.
    • Proactive Risk Management: Stay ahead with real-time alerts and customizable surveillance tools to mitigate potential risks.
    • Native Point-of-Sale (POS): Accelerate closings by 30% with a mobile-first, lender-branded portal for real-time pre-approvals—at no extra cost.
    • PATH Pricer (PPE): A cost-effective, lender-specific pricing engine that tracks historical data and integrates seamlessly with your investor network (optional).
    • Hedging & Loan Trading Excellence: Seamless integration with Mortgage Capital Trading, Inc. (MCT®)—our exclusive partner and the industry’s leading hedge advisor/loan exchange—empowers lenders to mitigate risk and optimize profitability with precision.

    Market-Leading Features

    • Advanced Underwriting System (AUS): Achieve rapid loan eligibility decisions with direct integration into GSE underwriting systems. PATH AUS for portfolio loans, non-QM programs, and other custom lending solutions.
    • Analytics Dashboard: Enjoy real-time metrics, trend analysis, and interactive reports—offering similar capabilities to leading analytics solutions but at a fraction of the cost.
    • Calyx Industry Connect: Submit loans instantly through an expanding network, projected to include over 100 lenders and investors by 2026.

    Why It Matters

    • Maximize ROI: Pay only for the tools you need—core features included, with optional upgrades tailored to your growth.
    • Effortless Scalability: Grow from 4 to 400 users—or more—without limitations or complex upgrades.
    • Streamlined Automation: Reduce manual errors, speed up processes, and simplify audits with seamless data flow.

    Designed for Growth, Built for Flexibility
    With its modular architecture, PATH gives lenders control over their technology journey. Enjoy transparent pricing, no long-term contracts, and full data ownership—so your operations stay agile and independent as your business expands.

    Availability & Next Steps
    Calyx PATH is now available nationwide. With quick implementation timelines and flexible subscription plans, lenders can start transforming their mortgage processes immediately. Learn more, request a demo, or contact us today at www.pathsoftware.com to start transforming your mortgage process.

    Stay ahead in mortgage lending—choose PATH and lead the future of your business.

    Media Contact:
    Valerie Pineda | Marketing Coordinator
    Phone: (214) 252-5637
    email: valerie_pineda@calyxsoftware.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kim, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect U.S. Economy from CCP Military Aggression

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Washington, DC — Today, U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40) joined Reps. Zach Nunn (IA-03) and Ritchie Torres (NY-15) to introduce bipartisan legislation to shield American markets from the catastrophic economic fallout of a potential Chinese Communist Party (CCP) invasion of Taiwan.  

    The Fortifying U.S. Markets from Chinese Military Aggression Act would create an advisory committee under the Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC) to develop an actionable plan to safeguard the U.S. economy in the event of CCP military escalation. 

    “Taiwan is not just a steadfast partner to the United States – it is home to 90% of the world’s advanced semiconductors that power our lives. The impact of a CCP attack on Taiwan on the lives of all Americans cannot be overstated,” said Rep. Young Kim. “The United States must be proactive in protecting our economy in case of an attack or blockade against Taiwan, and I’m glad to partner with Reps. Nunn and Torres on a bipartisan bill that would do exactly that.”  

    “While the United States has long-standing military plans in place to respond to a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan, there’s no economic game plan,” said Rep. Nunn. “90% of the world’s advanced semiconductors are manufactured in Taiwan. The economic impact of that capacity falling into the hands of the CCP would be devastating, not just for global markets, but for Main Street Iowa businesses. This bipartisan bill ensures we have a clear, coordinated plan to respond.” 

    “American investors should never be in the business of bankrolling the CCP’s military. Our bipartisan bill is a clear-eyed effort to ensure American financial markets are not exploited to strengthen an authoritarian regime that threatens our values and our allies,” said Rep. Torres. “Transparency and accountability are not just economic principles: they are national security imperatives. I’m proud to work with Congressman Nunn to push for a bipartisan solution to safeguard the integrity of our markets and defend American interests.” 

    “Representatives Zach Nunn, Ritchie Torres and Young Kim are demonstrating the kind of forward-thinking leadership our markets urgently need. In today’s globally interconnected financial system, the economic consequences of a geopolitical crisis — particularly one involving China and Taiwan — could be swift and severe,” said Ari Rubenstein, Global Trading Systems CEO. “This bipartisan bill takes a critical step toward strengthening market resilience, enhancing coordination among regulators, and ensuring we’re not caught flat-footed. Capital markets thrive on stability and preparedness, and I applaud Congressmen Nunn, Torres and Kim for proactively addressing a risk that is too significant to ignore.” 

    The bill responds to growing concerns from financial analysts and national security leaders who warn that the U.S. has no economic contingency plan to address the ripple effects of CCP aggression in the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan produces nearly 90% of the world’s most advanced semiconductors, components critical to the global supply chain and U.S. national security. 

    If the CCP were to invade, economists estimate a short-term market drop of up to 34%. Bloomberg estimates a global GDP loss of $10 trillion, more than double the contraction caused by the 2008 financial crisis or the COVID-19 pandemic. 

    While military contingency plans exist, the U.S. currently lacks an economic response strategy to such an invasion. This bipartisan effort would build a framework for interagency and private sector coordination, ensuring Main Street and U.S. markets are better protected if geopolitical tensions escalate by: 

    • Establishing a 12-member FSOC Advisory Committee that would include market makers, asset managers, exchanges, and experts on China-related geopolitical risk. 
    • Tasking the committee with developing detailed reports and recommendations to identify market vulnerabilities and safeguard U.S. financial stability. 
    • Requiring FSOC to issue annual public reports on economic risks from a Taiwan conflict, including threats to U.S. banking and retaliatory actions from China. 
    • Providing recommendations to regulators to ensure U.S. capital markets are prepared for potential market volatility or trade disruptions. 

    Text of the bill can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ciscomani Hosts Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer in Tucson

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Juan Ciscomani (Arizona)

    Ciscomani, Chavez-DeRemer Visit Pima Community College and Attend Roundtable with the Arizona Builders Alliance 

    TUCSON, AZ — U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani yesterday hosted Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer in Tucson to tour successful job training programs at Pima Community College and discuss collaborative efforts to build a stronger workforce pipeline. 

    “I can’t say enough how important community colleges are in workforce development,” Secretary Chavez-DeRemer said. “They are critical.” 

    At Ciscomani’s alma mater, the congressman and Secretary Chavez-DeRemer got a first-hand glimpse of state-of-the-art programs that train students in automotive technology, advanced manufacturing and construction trades.  

    Ciscomani, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer visit Pima Community College 

    “No matter where I go throughout the district, one of the top issues I hear is about workforce and the importance of workforce development,” Ciscomani told Pima Community College administrators and business leaders. “Community colleges are essential institutions that train and equip the workers of tomorrow with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive as productive members of the workforce. Institutions like this are vital, and I am proud to host Secretary Chavez-DeRemer at my alma mater.” 

    The discussion included Pima Community Chancellor Dr. Jeffrey Nasse, Joe Snell, President and CEO of the Chamber of Southern Arizona, Acting Provost and Vice Chancellor of Workforce Development and Innovation Ian Roark and local business leaders.  

    “We’re honored to welcome Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer and Congressman Juan Ciscomani to Pima Community College today,” said Pima Community College Chancellor Nasse. “Their visit underscores the critical importance of workforce development and validates the work PCC is doing every day with our industry partners. At Pima, it’s all about building real pathways to good jobs—and we do that by working hand-in-hand with employers and with key partners like the Chamber of Southern Arizona to grow a strong, regional workforce ecosystem.”   

    Ciscomani and the secretary then joined a roundtable discussion with members of the Arizona Builders Alliance to identify ways to address the workforce shortage for skilled construction workers and promote policies that reduce unnecessary red-tape and empower workers and businesses.  

    “You’re building Arizona. You’re building this country,” Ciscomani said. “The current shortage of skilled construction workers is driving costs higher and causing project delays. Secretary Chavez-DeRemer and I are focused on promoting and expanding education programs that bolster the workforce of skilled construction workers, support high-demand, well paying jobs, and support the vital construction industry.”  

    Ciscomani, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer attend roundtable hosted by the Arizona Builders Alliance 

    “I am incredibly grateful to my good friend, Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer for her leadership, commitment to empowering our workers, support for workforce development efforts, and for taking the time to meet with educators, business leaders, and employees in my district,” said Ciscomani. “Secretary Chavez-DeRemer is a fantastic partner, and I look forward to continuing working with her to deliver on our promise to America’s workforce.” 

    Secretary Chavez-DeRemer’s visit to Arizona was the sixth stop on her “America at Work” nationwide listening tour. She is a former congresswoman and mayor who was sworn in as the nation’s 30th Labor Secretary on March 11, 2025. 

    “With strong growth in the construction industry thanks to President Trump, it’s critical the Labor Department continues our mission to upskill American workers by partnering with local leaders to fill these in-demand jobs,” said Secretary Chavez-DeRemer. “I enjoyed learning firsthand how educators and businesses in Tucson have developed pathways to successful, good-paying careers in construction and building trades. Thank you to my friend Congressman Ciscomani for showcasing these achievements and explaining the challenges facing Arizona’s 6th District. I look forward to collaborating on workforce solutions that continue growing our economy.” 

    Background:

    • Below is legislation Ciscomani has introduced to incentivize construction of affordable housing and develop and fund workforce development programs in community colleges:
      • In the 118th Congress, Ciscomani introduced the Grants for Resources in Occupational Workforce Training for Healthcare (GROWTH) Act (H.R. 6078) to provide additional funding to nursing programs at community colleges in order to address the national nursing workforce shortage.
      • In the 118th Congress, the Congressman introduced the Speeding Up Production of Essential Residences (SUPER) Demonstration Act (H.R. 9195) to utilize unused COVID-19 funds to create and fund a pilot program designed to reduce construction times by removing unnecessary regulatory requirements facing developers, which would in turn incentivize more private-sector investment.   
      • In February 2025, Ciscomani reintroduced the Creating Opportunities for New Skills Training at Rural and Underserved Colleges and Trade Schools (CONSTRUCTS) Act (H.R. 1055) to fund and develop residential construction education and certification program at community colleges, junior colleges, and trade schools.    

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: FCDO press release: Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Argentina

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    FCDO press release: Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Argentina

    Mr David Cairns has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Argentine Republic in succession to Mrs Kirsty Hayes who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment. Mr Cairns will take up his appointment during September 2025.

    Curriculum vitae           

    Full name: David Seldon Cairns

    Date Role
    2019 to present Equinor, Vice President
    2015 to 2019 Stockholm, Her Majesty’s Ambassador and Director of Nordic Baltic Network
    2010 to 2014 FCO, Director, Estates, Security, Corporate Services
    2006 to 2010 Tokyo, Director of Trade and Investment
    2002 to 2006 Geneva, First Secretary WTO
    2000 to 2002 FCO, Private Secretary to Baronesses Scotland and Amos
    1999 to 1998 Tokyo, Second Secretary Commercial
    1993 to 1994 FCO, Security Policy Department
    1998 Pre-posting training (including Hebrew language training)
    1993 Joined FCO

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Sues to Block Trump Administration’s Dangerous Dismantling of Health and Human Services Department

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today led a coalition of 19 other attorneys general in filing a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s unconstitutional dismantling of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Since taking office, Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and the Trump administration have fired thousands of federal health workers, shuttered life-saving programs, and abandoned states to face mounting health crises without federal support. Last month, the administration escalated its attack on the department, launching a reckless, irrational, and dangerous restructuring that, in a single day, erased decades of public health progress and left HHS unable to execute many of its most vital functions. Attorney General James and the coalition argue that Secretary Kennedy and the Trump administration have robbed HHS of the resources necessary to effectively serve the American people and will be asking the court to halt the dismantling before even more lives are put at risk.

    “This administration is not streamlining the federal government; they are sabotaging it and all of us,” said Attorney General James. “When you fire the scientists who research infectious diseases, silence the doctors who care for pregnant patients, and shut down the programs that help firefighters and miners breathe or children thrive, you are not making America healthy – you are putting countless lives at risk.”

    On March 27, Secretary Kennedy revealed a dramatic restructuring of HHS as part of the president’s “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) initiative. The secretary announced that the department’s 28 agencies would be collapsed into 15, with many surviving offices shuffled or split apart. He also announced mass firings, slashing the department’s headcount from 85,000 to 65,000. On April 1, 10,000 employees were locked out of their work email, laptops, and offices without warning. Many only learned they had been terminated when they arrived at work to find their badges deactivated. In a matter of hours, critical HHS operations ground to a halt. Experiments were abandoned, trainings canceled, site visits postponed, and labs shuttered.

    Attorney General James and the coalition assert the impacts of this restructuring have been immediate and disastrous. Programs serving children and low-income families have been particularly devastated. With HHS regional offices shut down and grant funding frozen, Head Start centers are at risk of closing, depriving children of early education and foster families of critical support. Programs aiding children with disabilities, youth experiencing homelessness, and preschool development have been left in limbo. The administration also fired staff responsible for maintaining the federal poverty guidelines, which states rely on to determine eligibility for food assistance like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), housing support, Medicaid, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). The entire team running the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) was terminated, a reckless decision amid extreme weather and rising energy costs.

    Mental health and substance use services have been completely gutted as a result of the administration’s restructuring. The administration fired hundreds of employees working on mental health and addiction treatment, including half of the entire workforce at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), and closed all ten SAMHSA regional offices. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline team was slashed, and the National Survey on Drug Use and Health was halted, blinding policymakers to trends amid an escalating overdose crisis. Even the nation’s tobacco prevention agency was dismantled, despite tobacco-related deaths remaining the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S.

    The damage extends to reproductive health, disability services, and the fight against HIV and AIDS. Pregnant people and newborns have been put at risk after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) entire maternal health team was fired, collapsing the nation’s maternal mortality monitoring efforts. The federal fertility tracking program was shut down, stripping families of crucial information on access to IVF and family planning services. Sexual assault and domestic violence prevention efforts have been impacted, with much of the CDC Division of Violence Prevention reportedly fired or placed on leave. Sweeping layoffs at the Administration for Community Living (ACL) stand to devastate services for individuals with disabilities. The nation’s HIV/AIDS response has been undermined with expert scientists fired, prevention initiatives eliminated, and decades of hard-won progress undone in a matter of days.

    The World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP), which provides life-saving care to more than 137,000 9/11 first responders and survivors, faces the loss of the physicians needed to certify new cancer diagnoses. Workers across the country, from nurses to construction crews, risk losing reliable access to N95 masks following the closure of the nation’s only federal mask approval laboratory. Several CDC labs tracking infectious diseases – including measles – were shuttered, paralyzing federal disease surveillance. In the absence of federal leadership, New York’s state lab is now scrambling to fill the void, as it is one of the only remaining labs in the nation with the ability to test for many rare diseases and complex sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

    Attorney General James and the coalition argue that this chaos and devastation are not just collateral damage, but the administration’s intended result. They allege the Trump administration has violated hundreds of laws, bypassed congressional authority, and trampled the constitutional separation of powers, ignoring laws that Congress enacted to protect public health and taking reckless action without regard for the consequences. Secretary Kennedy even publicly acknowledged he rejected a case-by-case review of terminations, saying he feared it would cost “political momentum.” As Attorney General James and the coalition write in the lawsuit, “the terminations and reorganizations happened quickly, but the consequences are severe, complicated, drawn-out, and potentially irreversible.”

    “The disastrous cuts to the WTC Health Program are placing in peril the lives of every first responder and survivor that relies on this health care program to stay alive,” said Gary Smiley, 9/11 First Responder and WTC Liaison for FDNY EMS Local 2507. “Every day there is doubt in these responders’ and survivors’ lives as to what will come next in their health battle. The Trump administration, by slashing research grants and proposals for new and emerging conditions to the bone, leaves them hopeless and Forgotten. The psychological impacts on these members are reprehensible. This is exactly the opposite of what this nation promised to each and every one of them: To Never Forget.”

    “Last month, the federal government suddenly closed five regional Head Start offices, including the one that serves New York. Providers were left scrambling, unable to contact anyone, and worried for the families who rely on them. Recertification applications are unresolved, and uncertainty about payments and the future of Head Start have caused a sense of panic among child care providers,” said Susan Stamler, Executive Director of United Neighborhood Houses. “The shrinking of HHS is clearly having devastating impacts on our neighborhoods and families. Jeopardizing child care is no way to help working parents. We stand proudly with Attorney General James as she fights to protect our communities and ensure every child has the care they deserve.”

    “The dismantling of Medicaid and the erasure of maternal health infrastructure reveal a devastating truth—mothers and babies are not a priority in this nation,” said Chanel Porchia-Albert, Founder and CEO of Ancient Song Doula Services. “In one of the wealthiest, most industrialized countries, we rank among the worst for maternal outcomes. If we do not invest now in data, programs, and policies rooted in equity and upliftment, we will bear the generational cost of this neglect. Maternal health must be a bipartisan priority—because the future of our communities depends on it.”

    “In 2024 alone, Housing Works has provided primary care to nearly 10,000 patients—70% covered by Medicaid or Duals,” said Anthony Feliciano, VP of Community Mobilization at Housing Works. “The Trump administration’s reckless dismantling of HHS directly threatens our ability to serve these communities. From HIV services to substance use support, this attack on public health infrastructure abandons the most vulnerable people in our state. These devastating cuts jeopardize decades of progress toward ending the HIV epidemic—an effort that is not only about public health, but about justice and dignity for our communities. Ending the epidemic is how we serve our people, and we refuse to allow this administration to turn its back on them.”

    Attorney General James and the coalition are urging the court to immediately halt the Trump administration’s unlawful dismantling of HHS and to require the restoration of critical health programs to protect the health and well-being of people nationwide.

    Joining Attorney General James in this lawsuit are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Michigan, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Antalpha Announces Launch of Initial Public Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Antalpha Platform Holding Company (“Antalpha” or the “Company”) today announced that it has launched the roadshow for its proposed initial public offering of 3,850,000 ordinary shares with expected pricing between $11.00 and $13.00 per ordinary share. Antalpha expects to grant the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase an additional 577,500 ordinary shares to cover over-allotments, if any. The Company has applied to list its ordinary shares on the Nasdaq Global Market under the ticker symbol “ANTA.”

    Roth Capital Partners and Compass Point are joint book-running managers for the proposed offering.

    The proposed offering will be made only by means of a prospectus. Copies of the preliminary prospectus relating to this proposed offering, when available, may be obtained by visiting EDGAR on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Alternatively, copies of the preliminary prospectus, when available, may be obtained from: Roth Capital Partners, LLC, 888 San Clemente Drive, Suite 400, Newport Beach, CA 92660 Attn: Prospectus Department, by phone: (800) 678-9147, or by email at rothecm@roth.com; or Compass Point Research & Trading, LLC, Attention: Syndicate, 1055 Thomas Jefferson Street, N.W. Suite 303, Washington, D.C. 20007, or by email to: syndicate@compasspointllc.com.

    A registration statement on Form F-1 relating to the proposed offering of these securities has been filed with the SEC but has not yet become effective. These securities may not be sold, nor may offers to buy be accepted prior to the time the registration statement becomes effective. This press release is being made pursuant to, and in accordance with, Rule 134 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    About Antalpha

    Antalpha is a leading fintech company specializing in providing financing, technology and risk management solutions to institutions in the digital asset industry. As the primary lending partner of Bitmain, Antalpha offers Bitcoin supply chain and margin loans through the Antalpha Prime technology platform, which allows customers to originate and manage their digital asset loans, as well as monitor collateral positions with near real-time data.

    Contact
    Investor Relations: ir@antalpha.com

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains statements that may constitute “forward-looking” statements pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “aims,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “likely to,” and similar statements. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about Antalpha’s beliefs, plans, and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in Antalpha’s filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and Antalpha does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f0c7d150-bab1-4305-b435-3075d23fa0ad

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Eight Welsh businesses celebrated in The King’s Awards for Enterprise

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Eight Welsh businesses celebrated in The King’s Awards for Enterprise

    Welsh recipients announced in third year of The King’s Awards for Enterprise – the UK’s most prestigious business awards.

    The King’s Award for Enterprise. Recipients from Wales.

    • Businesses from Bridgend to Wrexham recognised, with each playing a key role in the UK Government’s mission for economic growth.
    • Winners across three different categories: Innovation, International Trade and Sustainable Development.

    The recipients of The King’s Awards for Enterprise have been announced today [6 May], celebrating the achievements of leading businesses from across the UK and Channel Islands.

    Eight Welsh businesses across a range of different sectors have been recognized by His Majesty The King as among the best in the country, highlighting the ambition, ingenuity, and success of our diverse business community. 

    The businesses awarded cover a variety of sectors including industrial lasers, medical equipment, and baking, and are based around the country, from Wrexham to Bridgend and Welshpool. 

    One Welsh company was awarded for their innovative practices, five for their achievements in international trade and one for their sustainable development.

    By supporting more people into work, developing new innovations and exporting the best Britain has to offer around the world, businesses like these play a key role in the UK Government’s mission to go further and faster for economic growth, and put more money in more working people’s pockets as part of the Plan for Change.

    Gareth Thomas, Minister for Services, Small Businesses and Exports said:

    There are some excellent Welsh businesses recognised in this year’s King’s Awards for Enterprise: from Spectrum Technologies’ pioneering laser equipment to Bluestone Resort’s commitment to environmental responsibility. 

    I wish the winners every success as they continue to grow, innovate and prosper, and commend the invaluable contributions they have already made to communities at home in Wales and abroad, helping to boost the UK economy.

    Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:

    I congratulate all eight Welsh businesses who have won awards. From baking to medical devices to sustainable holidays, their work shows the best of business right across Wales, producing and exporting high quality products and services.

    By working with talented Welsh enterprises to create well-paid local jobs and economic growth, the UK Government is delivering on its Plan for Change.

    This year’s recipients include Spectrum Technologies, a global leader in the supply of industrial laser wire-processing equipment for the aerospace industry. Based in Bridgend, they have been recognised in the International Trade category.   

    Dr Peter Dickinson, Chairman and Chief Technology Officer at Spectrum Technologies, said:  

    Spectrum is very excited and proud to be a winner of the King’s Award for Enterprise. The Company faced huge challenges with Covid but our team of employees have really pulled together and helped turn a difficult situation around, more than doubling sales over the last few years.

    The King’s Award is a tribute to their combined efforts, as well as a reflection on the company’s global market-leading position supplying specialised laser wire processing equipment to the aerospace industry.” 

    Bluestone Resort is situated in the heart of the Pembrokeshire countryside. The park has been designed to reconnect families with nature in a responsible fashion, and as such they have received an award in the Sustainable Development category. 

    William McNamara OBE, CEO and Founder of Bluestone, said: 

    Receiving the King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development is a hugely exciting and rewarding milestone for everyone at Bluestone National Park Resort in Pembrokeshire.  

    Our ethos is centered on the three pillars of sustainable development: actively protecting natural ecosystems, growing the local economy and supporting local communities. This has become our operational blueprint. The King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development gives us many reasons to celebrate, recognising the importance of our work as we continue to protect our planet for future generations.” 

    The King’s Awards for Enterprise were previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise and were renamed two years ago to reflect His Majesty The King’s desire to continue the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II by recognising outstanding UK businesses. The Award programme, now in its 59th year, has awarded over 8,000 companies since its inception in 1965.

    His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenants – the King’s representatives in each county – will be presenting the Awards to businesses locally throughout the year. One representative from each winning business will also be invited to a special royal reception event.

    Eligible businesses are free to apply for one or more categories. The recipients pass a robust assessment process, judged by experts from industry, academia, the voluntary sector, a representative from the Welsh Government and senior officials in Whitehall. On that basis, each year, The King’s Awards for Enterprise recipients are recommended by the Prime Minister.

    Richard Harris, Head of Trade at the Welsh Government and a judge on this year’s panel commented: 

    It’s an absolute privilege to represent Wales as a judge on the Kings Awards and reviewing and appraising the applications which seem to grow in quality year on year never fails to impress. 

    The Kings Award is the gold standard, it means something, for me it’s the benchmark award for quality that can literally open doors and start conversations across the world, enabling companies to access opportunities that ordinarily might not be available and win business.

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: New Car Sales in Russia Down 27% in January-April 2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Moscow, May 6 /Xinhua/ — According to the results of the first four months of 2025, sales of new cars of all segments in Russia decreased by 27 percent year-on-year and amounted to 404 thousand units, the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade reported.

    During the specified period, 346.4 thousand new passenger cars were sold in Russia, a decrease of 26%. The market volume in the light commercial vehicle segment amounted to 34 thousand units, which is 16% less than the same period last year.

    In addition, 20 thousand trucks and 3 thousand electric vehicles were sold in January-April, which is 49 percent and 66 percent less, respectively, than in the same period a year earlier.

    At the same time, in April, the overall market growth was noted by 25 percent compared to March 2025, the ministry noted. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Global CEO pay increased by 50 percent since 2019, 56 times more than worker wages

    Source: Oxfam –

    • Average CEO pay surged by 50 percent in real terms since 2019, while average worker wages increased by just 0.9 percent.
    • Every hour, billionaires pocket more wealth than the average worker earns in an entire year.  
    • The average gender pay gap in 11,366 corporations worldwide narrowed slightly from 27 percent to 22 percent between 2022 and 2023 ―yet their average female employee still effectively works for free on Fridays, while their average male employee is paid through the week.
    • Oxfam and the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) are calling for higher taxes on the super-rich to invest in people and planet.

    Average global CEO pay hit $4.3 million in 2024, reveals new analysis from Oxfam ahead of International Workers’ Day (1 May). This is a 50 percent real-term increase from $2.9 million in 2019 (adjusted for inflation) —a rise that far outpaces the real wage growth of the average worker, who saw a 0.9 percent increase over the same five-year period in the countries where CEO pay data is available.

    The figures are median averages, based on full executive pay packages, including bonuses and stock options, from nearly 2,000 corporations across 35 countries where CEOs were paid more than $1 million in 2024. The data, analyzed by Oxfam, was sourced from the S&P Capital IQ database, which uses publicly reported company financials.

    • Ireland and Germany have some of the highest-paid CEOs, earning an average of $6.7 million and $4.7 million a year in 2024 respectively.
    • Average CEO pay in South Africa was $1.6 million in 2024, while in India, it reached $2 million.

    “Year after year, we see the same grotesque spectacle: CEO pay explodes while workers’ wages barely budge. This isn’t a glitch in the system —it’s the system working exactly as designed, funnelling wealth ever upwards while millions of working people struggle to afford rent, food, and healthcare,” said Oxfam International Executive Director Amitabh Behar.

    Boosts to global CEO pay come as warnings grow that wages are failing to keep pace with the cost of living. While the International Labor Organization (ILO) global reports real wages grew by 2.7 percent in 2024, many workers have seen their wages stagnate. In France, South Africa and Spain for example, real wage growth was just 0.6 percent last year. While wage inequality had decreased globally, it remains very high, particularly in low-income countries, where the share of income of the richest 10 percent is 3.4 times higher than the poorest 40 percent.

    Billionaires —who often fully, or in part, own large corporations— pocketed on average $206 billion in new wealth over the last year. This is equivalent to $23,500 an hour, more than the global average income in 2023 ($21,000).
    Beyond runaway CEO pay, the global working class is now facing a new threat: sweeping US tariffs. These policies pose significant risks for workers worldwide, including job losses and rising costs for basic goods that would stoke extreme inequality everywhere. 

    “For so many workers worldwide, President Trump’s reckless use of tariffs means a push from one cruel order to another: from the frying pan of destructive neoliberal trade policy to the fire of weaponized tariffs. These policies will not only hurt working families in the US, but especially harm workers trying to escape poverty in some of the world’s poorest countries,” said Behar.   

    Increasingly, corporations are being required by law to report their gender pay gaps ―the average difference in earnings between women and men. Oxfam’s analysis of the S&P Capital IQ database found that among 11,366 corporations across 82 countries that reported gender pay gap data, the average gap narrowed slightly from 27 percent to 22 percent between 2022 and 2023. Yet, on average, women in these corporations still effectively work without pay on Fridays, while their male counterparts are paid for the full week.

    Corporations in Japan and South Korea reported some of the highest average gender pay gaps in 2023 (around 40 percent). The average gap in Latin America was 36 percent in 2023, up from 34 percent the previous year. Corporations in Canada, Denmark, Ireland, and the UK reported average pay gaps of 16 percent.

    Oxfam’s analysis also found that out of 45,501 corporations across 168 countries where the CEO is paid more than $10 million and their gender is reported, fewer than 7 percent have a female CEO.

    “The outrageous pay inequality between CEOs and workers confirms that we lack democracy where it is needed most: at work. Around the world, workers are being denied the basics of life while corporations pocket record profits, dodge taxes and lobby to evade responsibility,” said Luc Triangle, General Secretary of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC).

    “Workers are demanding a New Social Contract that works for them —not the billionaires undermining democracy. Fair taxation, strong public services, living wages and a just transition are not radical demands —they are the foundation of a just society. It’s time to end the billionaire coup against democracy and put people and planet first.”

    Oxfam and the ITUC are calling on governments to sustain and accelerate momentum on taxing the super-rich, both nationally and globally. This includes introducing top marginal rates of tax of at least 75 percent on all personal income for the highest earners to discourage sky-high executive pay. Governments must also ensure minimum wages keep up with inflation, and that everyone has the right to unionize, strike and bargain collectively.
     

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-India Free Trade Deal: A Deal For Growth

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UK-India Free Trade Deal: A Deal For Growth

    The UK has secured the best deal India has ever agreed, providing businesses with security and confidence to trade with the fastest-growing economy in the G20.

    Secretary of State Jonathan Reynolds with Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal

    Delivering Economic Growth 

    The core mission of this Government is to deliver economic growth that raises living standards and puts money in people’s pockets, and that is exactly what this deal will do. We estimate that it will increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion, add £4.8billion a year to our economy and boost wages by £2.2 billion every year in the long run. footnote 1 This is the best deal India has ever agreed to. It delivers on our manifesto commitment to create trade relationships that unlock new opportunities for businesses across all our nations and regions. 

    Case study – Standard Chartered 

    Standard Chartered is a leading UK-based international banking group with a presence in 53 of the world’s most dynamic markets. It is the largest and oldest foreign bank in India, acting as a ‘super connector’ of cross-border trade and investment by driving commerce and prosperity through its unique diversity for more than 165 years.   

    Saif Malik, CEO, UK and Head of Coverage, UK, Standard Chartered, said:

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is a significant achievement. It will create new opportunities for UK and Indian businesses, enable greater access to one of the world’s largest and most dynamic markets, and drive growth and innovation across the UK-India corridor.

    We welcome this strong commitment to partnership and prosperity.

    Case study – UPS

    UPS is one of the world’s largest companies, with 2024 revenue of $91.1 billion, and provides a broad range of integrated logistics solutions for customers in more than 200 countries and territories, including connecting the United Kingdom and India. 

    Markus Kessler, Managing Director, UPS UK, Ireland and Nordics, said:

    We welcome the announcement of this important agreement between two countries that are both vital markets in our global network.

    We look forward to continuing to help businesses of all sizes across the UK reach new customers in one of the world’s most populous and dynamic countries.

    Future-Proofing Our Economy 

    This deal gives UK businesses first-mover advantage with a new economic superpower. Currently the biggest country in the world by population, India is projected to move from its fifth-largest global economy to third in the next three years, thanks to the highest growth rate in the G20. footnote 2 By the end of the decade, it will be home to an estimated 60 million middle-class consumers, whose numbers are projected to grow to a quarter of a billion by 2050. footnote 3 And by 2035, their demand for imports is on course to top £1.4 trillion. footnote 4 The enormous scope of this market, where British goods and services are already sought after, represents an equally huge opportunity for UK businesses in the decades to come. 

    Case study – John Smedley Ltd

    Established in 1784 in Lea Mills, Derbyshire, John Smedley Ltd is a UK-based manufacturer and retailer of luxury knitwear. 

    Bill Leach, Global Sales Director, John Smedley Ltd, said:

    India is one of the fastest growing luxury markets in the world, and we are very excited about the UK- India Free Trade Agreement coming to fruition.

    John Smedley knitwear is already sold in over 50 countries around the world, and now that the FTA has been finalised, we shall very much look forward to ensuring that an ever-increasing number of discerning luxury consumers in India will enjoy greater access to The World’s Finest Knitwear.

    We are thankful to DBT for their significant efforts in bringing this FTA to successful conclusion.

    Cutting costs for UK-India trade 

    From day one, this deal will support businesses across the United Kingdom by making it cheaper, easier, and quicker to trade with India. The deal will slash costs on UK exports, including whiskies and gin, cosmetics, medical devices, advanced machinery and lamb. Based on current trade alone, India’s tariff cuts amount to £400m in the first year, going up around £900m after 10 years. footnote 5 And that’s before factoring in the savings from speedier and easier trade from improved customs and digital commitments. This immediate relief represents a major advantage our businesses will enjoy over their international competitors, helping them to invest, expand, and support more high-quality jobs. 

    Case study – Smith+Nephew

    Smith+Nephew designs and manufactures technology that takes the limits off living. Smith+Nephew’s products include: Advanced Wound Management; orthopaedics and a robot assisted surgery system; and joint preservation and soft tissue orthopaedics.

    Deepak Nath, Chief Executive Officer, Smith+Nephew, said:

    Given the size of the Indian economy and its healthcare system, India is an important location for Smith+Nephew. The Free Trade Agreement offers the potential to build trading links in the healthcare sector.

    We hope that the Free Trade Agreement will enable Smith+Nephew’s innovative medical technologies to support more healthcare professionals to return their patients to health and mobility.

    Delivering opportunities for High-Growth Sectors 

    This deal supports the UK’s world-leading high-growth sectors identified in the Industrial Strategy, including:  

    • Slashing tariffs for UK’s large and varied advanced manufacturing sectors, including for automotives, electrical machinery and high-end optical products.  

    • Giving the clean energy industry brand new and unprecedented access to India’s vast procurement market, as India makes the switch to renewable energy, alongside their growing energy demand. 

    • Unlocking new opportunities for medical devices firms within the life sciences sector, with reduced tariffs and rules of origin that factor in the UK’s complex supply chains and ensure that businesses can reap the benefits.  

    • Enshrining copyright protections for the creative sector, enabling our exporters to feel confident exporting to India with a commitment that works will continue to be protected for at least 60 years. India will also commit to engaging on aspects of Copyright and Related Rights. This deal addresses the interests of UK creators, rights holders, and consumers, including around Public Performance Rights and Artist Resale Rights, which acknowledge the importance of payment rights. India will also conduct an internal review of their copyright protection terms.   

    • Guaranteeing access for the UK’s world-class financial and professional business services sectors to India’s growing market. This is on top of securing India’s foreign investment cap for the insurance sector, ensuring UK financial services companies are treated equally to domestic suppliers, and encouraging the recognition of professional qualifications. 

    • Securing India’s best ever commitments on digital trade for our Digital and technology sectors, such as promoting digital systems and paperless trade, helping UK businesses of all sizes take the opportunities on offer in this huge and rapidly expanding market.  

    Case study – Premier League

    The Premier League is the world’s most-watched football competition, reaching 1.6 billion viewers in 189 countries around the world. The global success of the Premier League makes it one of the UK’s most significant soft power assets, amplifying British cultural values and generating economic growth and inward investment. 

    Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said:

    India continues to be incredibly important to the Premier League and its clubs. It is a vibrant country that presents exciting opportunities and significant potential. The Premier League’s recent announcement of an office opening in Mumbai demonstrates our commitment to build on longstanding work to engage local fans, develop grassroots and elite football and further promote the game in India.  

    The continued growth of the Premier League and UK businesses in India will have a positive impact on our domestic economy and we welcome the news of this new trade deal secured by Government, which will support UK businesses operating in India.

    Case study – EY

    EY teams work across a full spectrum of services in assurance, consulting, tax, strategy and transactions. Fuelled by sector insights, a globally connected, multidisciplinary network and a diverse ecosystem of partners, EY teams provide services in more than 150 countries and territories. 

    Rohan Malik, EMEIA and UKI Government & Public Sector Managing Partner, EY, said:  

    This agreement is poised to accelerate an economic partnership that is already thriving, with the value of total trade between the UK and India having more than doubled from £16.6bn to £40bn over the last decade.

    British businesses stand to benefit substantially from enhanced access to one of the world’s largest export markets and a skills pool that can fuel strategically important UK sectors, including professional services and emerging industries based around data and AI.

    Case study – Concrete Canvas Ltd

    Concrete Canvas Ltd is a Wales-based low-carbon concrete manufacturer. 

    William Crawford, Director of Concrete Canvas Ltd, said: 

    India is a dynamic and vibrant economy and an increasingly important market for Concrete Canvas products. A UK-India FTA will help to accelerate our plans for growth by reducing trade barriers and making us more competitive.

    This is welcome news for both UK and Indian businesses!

    Case study – Biopanda

    Biopanda is a Belfast-based medtech manufacturer which exports in vitro test kits for clinical laboratories, veterinary practice, and food safety laboratories.

    Philip McKee, Sales Manager at Biopanda, said:  

    Biopanda have been supplying a range of diagnostic products to the Indian market throughout the past ten years.

    We value the business we have done already throughout India and with the introduction of the UK-India FTA this should benefit in increased trade with the removal of export barriers.

    This will hopefully increase the market access, allowing our distributors throughout India to provide a larger range of our highly accurate clinical diagnostic products at a lower price to the consumer.

    Unlocking Opportunities Nationwide 

    Through our Plan for Change, this government will raise living standards in every part of the United Kingdom. This deal supports that goal, unlocking new opportunities in every region and nation.  

    This deal also opens a huge new market for iconic UK brands, securing India’s best ever tariff offer and providing access to India’s growing middle-class consumer base, which will give iconic UK brands the opportunity to expand their reach and influence. This access includes cutting tariffs on whiskies from 150% to 75% at entry into force, following to 40% after 10 years, as well as on other agri-food products such as soft drinks dropping from 33% to 0% after seven years, and lamb dropping from 33% to 0% at entry into force. Separately high-end cars will benefit from a drop from over 100% to 10% under a quota. We have also secured India’s best ever agreement on Rules of Origin, which enables UK businesses to take advantage of these new lower tariffs.

    This deal will also support consumers as they benefit from the best of India and greater variety as our trading relationship grows, including clothing, footwear, and iconic food and drink. New commitments will also help protect consumers from spam texts from India, which could include requiring opt-out or prior consent.

    Case study – Chivas Brothers Ltd

    Chivas Brothers Ltd is part of the Pernod Ricard group of companies and exports over £2bn of Scotch whisky and gin every year, including brands like Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s, The Glenlivet and Beefeater. India is amongst Chivas Brothers’ largest export markets and the biggest consumer of whisky worldwide by volume. The UK-India trade agreement will help solidify and potentially expand on Pernod Ricard’s existing investments, which includes a €200m distillery construction in the Indian state of Maharashtra and £100m in bottling facilities in Dumbarton, Scotland. 

    Jean-Etienne Gourgues, Chivas Brothers Chairman and CEO, said:

    The announcement of a free trade agreement in principle between the UK and India is a welcome boost for Chivas Brothers during an uncertain global economic environment.

    India is the world’s biggest whisky market by volume and greater access will be a game changer for the export of our Scotch whisky brands, such as Chivas Regal and Ballantine’s. The deal will support long term investment and jobs in our distilleries and bottling plants in Scotland, as well as help deliver growth in both Scotland and India over the next decade. Slàinte to the UK Ministers and officials who steered the deal though long negotiations.

    Case study – Diageo

    Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with a collection of brands across spirits and beer categories sold in more than 180 countries around the world. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, J&B and Buchanan’s whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness.  

    Diageo is a leading player in India’s beverage alcohol sector and is among the top 10 fast-moving consumer goods companies in India by market capitalisation. Diageo has 50 manufacturing facilities across India, employs over 3,300 people directly in market with a further 100,000 jobs supported throughout its value chain. India is one of Diageo’s largest markets globally and accounts for almost half of its total global spirits volume.

    Diageo Chief Executive Debra Crew said:

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is a huge achievement by Prime Ministers Modi and Starmer and Ministers Goyal and Reynolds, and all of us at Diageo toast their success. It will be transformational for Scotch and Scotland, while powering jobs and investment in both India and the UK.

    The deal will also increase quality and choice for discerning consumers across India, the world’s largest and most exciting whisky market.

    Enhancing Security through our partnership

    The UK and India already enjoy a deep and broad partnership built on our shared principles as two democracies, our commitment to the rules-based international order, strong ties in areas including culture, education, food, and sport, and of course through our living bridge – with some 1.9 million people with Indian heritage calling the UK their home. footnote 6

    This agreement encourages collaboration between our two complementary economies. It creates a framework to promote closer ties on innovation – including on new technologies in areas like agriculture, health, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy. And our agreement on business mobility will help experts on both sides deliver their services, enabling us to capitalise on the economic transformation that technology will bring over the course of this century. 

    Through this deal, we are showing the world that we stand for free, fair, and open trade. In an increasingly unstable and volatile world, this provides businesses with the confidence that they need to grow and expand. And as India’s approach to global trade changes, so can this deal. We have agreed in numerous areas that, if India offer a better deal to a different country, we can come back to the table to renegotiate for the UK. 

    Case study – Coltraco Ultrasonics

    Coltraco Ultrasonics are high-exporting advanced manufacturers of ultrasonic instrumentation and systems, exporting 90% manufactured output to 120 countries. Coltraco have twice won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade and have exported to India for 30 years. Since 2019, Coltraco have won the contract for nearly 200 ships of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard and support in-service use and maintenance of their ultrasonic watertight integrity instrumentation on board. 

    Professor Carl Stephen Patrick Hunter OBE, Chairman Coltraco Ultrasonics Limited & Director-General The Durham Institute of Research, Development & Invention, said:

    Coltraco Ultrasonics is strongly supportive of the India FTA Trade Agreement and proud to have modestly contributed to and advising the British negotiating team on various chapters.

    The UK private sector can now, because of the India FTA, the Windsor Framework CPTPP, and a variety of other UK FTAs, look out to the world, balancing our exporting and investment opportunities between the USA, the EU and Asia Pacific.

    It is a tremendous success and we thank British and Indian Civil Servants for their public service in the UK-India FTA.

    Unlocking Access to India’s Untapped Procurement Market 

    For the first time, UK businesses will have guaranteed and unprecedented access to India’s vast procurement market, covering goods, services and construction. UK businesses will be granted brand new access to approximately 40,000 tenders with a value of at least £38 billion a year. footnote 8 This will unlock significant opportunities spanning a range of sectors, including transport, healthcare and life sciences and green energy. Alongside this UK firms will, for the first time, have access to India’s procurement portal, connecting them to the information they need to make the best out of these opportunities – which will grow as India builds the infrastructure necessary for an economic superpower with the world’s largest population. 

    UK companies will also get exclusive treatment under the ‘Make in India’ policy, which currently provides preferential treatment for federal government procurement to businesses who manufacture or produce in India. However, this unprecedented treatment will mean that if at least 20% of a company’s product or service is from the UK, they will be treated as a ‘Class Two local supplier’– granting them the same status that is currently only ever given to Indian businesses.  

    Protecting Our Values 

    Throughout the negotiations, we have championed our values – securing India’s first ever chapters on anti-corruption, consumer protections, labour rights, the environment, gender equality, and development. We have protected the NHS, defended the UK’s interests, ensured the points-based immigration system is not affected, upheld our high food standards, and maintained our animal welfare commitments throughout. This deal demonstrates our commitment to both workers and businesses, staying true to our values while driving economic growth.

    1. DBT CGE modelling. See Technical Annex

    2. World Economic Outlook Database, October 2024

    3. Projections are calculated using the methodology described in DBT’s Global Trade Outlook, February 2023

    4. Ibid.

    5. The methodology for estimating the value of duties can be found in Annex 5 of the technical annexes accompanying the UK-India FTA Scoping assessment

    6. 2021 England and Wales Census; 2021 NI Census; 2011 Scottish Census

    7. DBT inward investment results 2023 to 2024 (HTML version) – GOV.UK; ; Grant Thornton, Britain meets India 2024; Grant Thornton, India meets Britain tracker: 2023.

    8. This analysis utilises Top 200 Entity data from India’s e-procurement dashboard, for the financial years 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23, which is not exhaustively used by all federal government agencies for all procurements. Therefore, several entities included within India’s market access schedule cannot be included within the analysis. This analysis does not take into account restrictions on access as a result of Make in India, the chapter thresholds and tenders for goods or services not covered by the government procurement chapter.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK concludes trade deal with India

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK concludes trade deal with India

    Multi-billion-pound boost to UK economy with landmark India trade deal to make working people better off

    • Huge economic win for UK as trade deal with India agreed which will deliver for working people and British businesses 

    • Deal will slash Indian tariffs on key products such as whisky, cosmetics and medical devices, locking in reductions on 90% of tariff lines for UK exports to unleash opportunities for businesses across regions and nations of UK 

    • Delivers on Plan for Change as £4.8 billion added to UK economy and £2.2 billion in wages every year in the long run under deal 

    The UK and India have today agreed a landmark trade deal which delivers on this government’s core mission of growing the economy, raising living standards, and putting money in people’s pockets. 

    Indian tariffs will be slashed, locking in reductions on 90% of tariff lines, with 85% of these becoming fully tariff-free within a decade. 

    Whisky and gin tariffs will be halved from 150% to 75% before reducing to 40% by year ten of the deal, while automotive tariffs will go from over 100% to 10% under a quota. 

    Other goods with reduced tariffs, which can open markets and make trade cheaper for businesses and Indian consumers, include cosmetics, aerospace, lamb, medical devices, salmon, electrical machinery, soft drinks, chocolate and biscuits.  

    British shoppers could see cheaper prices and more choice on products including clothes, footwear, and food products including frozen prawns as UK liberalises tariffs. 

    The deal is expected to increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion, UK GDP by £4.8 billion and wages by £2.2 billion each year in the long run. 

    UK businesses gain a competitive edge over international competitors when entering India’s enormous market as it gets even bigger, forecasted to become the 3rd largest global economy within three years. 

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds and Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal held final talks in London last week after relaunching negotiations only two months ago. Negotiators across both sides have worked around the clock since February to get this deal done, which is the biggest and most economically significant bilateral trade deal the UK has done since leaving the EU, and the best deal India has ever agreed. 

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 

    We are now in a new era for trade and the economy. That means going further and faster to strengthen the UK’s economy, putting more money in working people’s pockets.  

    Through this government’s stable and pragmatic leadership, the UK has become an attractive place to do business. Today we have agreed a landmark deal with India – one of the fastest growing economies in the world, which will grow the economy and deliver for British people and business.  

    Strengthening our alliances and reducing trade barriers with economies around the world is part of our Plan for Change to deliver a stronger and more secure economy here at home.   

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: 

    This government’s number one mission is growing the economy as part of our Plan for Change so we can put more money in people’s pockets.  

    By striking a new trade deal with the fastest-growing economy in the world, we are delivering billions for the UK economy and wages every year and unlocking growth in every corner of the country, from advanced manufacturing in the North East to whisky distilleries in Scotland. 

    In times of global uncertainty, a pragmatic approach to global trade that provides businesses and consumers with stability is more important than ever.

    At least 1.9 million people with Indian heritage call the UK their home and striking this deal will strengthen the vital partnership between our two democracies. 

    The benefits for UK businesses and consumers under this deal are massive, with wins across an array of sectors.  

    Notes to editors 

    Benefits for businesses of all sizes 

    Barriers to trading will be dropped, with India agreeing to reduce tariffs on a whole host of products including whisky, medical devices, advanced machinery, and lamb, making UK exports more competitive. Based on 2022 trade alone, this amounts to India cutting tariffs worth over £400 million when the deal comes into force, which will more than double to around £900 million after 10 years.  

    Exporting to this huge market will be easier than ever before thanks to India agreeing to release goods as quickly as possible after arrival at customs, work with the UK on one streamlined portal for trade and publish customs procedures and laws online in English. In addition, new digital commitments will support electronic contracts and transactions. These changes could particularly support small and medium-sized businesses, making it easier for them to enter the Indian market. 

    Delivering for high-growth sectors 

    High-growth sectors identified in the Industrial Strategy are supported through this deal, including: 

    • Tariffs cut on the UK’s large and varied advanced manufacturing sectors from aerospace and automotive, electrical circuits and conductors, and high-end optical products. 

    • The clean energy industry will have brand new, unprecedented access to India’s vast procurement market as the country makes the switch to renewable energy and continues to see growing energy demand. 

    • Reduced tariffs on medical devices that take the UK’s complex supply chains into consideration will unleash new opportunities for the UK life sciences sector. 

    • Enhanced copyright protections for the creative sector will give exporters confidence thanks to a commitment that their work will continue to be protected for at least 60 years. 

    • World-class UK services sectors – who export just over £500 billion worldwide will now benefit from market certainty when trading into the growing Indian market. 

    More choice and protections for consumers 

    As bilateral trade grows under this deal, the UK will benefit from the best India has to offer with British shoppers enjoying access to a greater variety of clothes and shoes.  New commitments will also help protect consumers from spam texts from India, which could include requiring opt-out or prior consent. 

    Mark Kent, Chief Executive of the Scotch Whisky Association, welcomed the “transformational” deal: 

    The UK-India free trade agreement is a once in a generation deal and a landmark moment for Scotch Whisky exports to the world’s largest whisky market. It shows that the UK government is making significant progress towards achieving its growth mission, and the Scotch Whisky industry looks forward to working with the UK and Indian governments in the months ahead to implement the deal, which would be a big boost to two major global economies during turbulent times. 

    The reduction of the current 150% tariff on Scotch Whisky will be transformational for the industry, and has the potential to increase Scotch Whisky exports to India by £1bn over the next 5 years, creating 1,200 jobs across the UK. It will also give discerning consumers in India far greater choice of brands, as more SME Scotch Whisky producers have the opportunity to enter the market.” 

    Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said:  

    India continues to be incredibly important to the Premier League and its clubs. It is a vibrant country that presents exciting opportunities and significant potential. The Premier League’s recent announcement of an office opening in Mumbai demonstrates our commitment to build on longstanding work to engage local fans, develop grassroots and elite football and further promote the game in India. 

    The continued growth of the Premier League and UK businesses in India will have a positive impact on our domestic economy and we welcome the news of this new trade deal secured by Government, which will support UK businesses operating in India.” 

    Bill Winters CBE, Group CEO of Standard Chartered and Co-Chair of the UK-India Financial Partnership, said:

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is a significant achievement. It will create new opportunities for UK and Indian businesses, enable greater access to one of the world’s largest and most dynamic markets, and drive growth and innovation across the UK-India corridor. We welcome this strong commitment to partnership and prosperity.   

    Markus Kessler, Managing Director, UPS UK, Ireland and Nordics said: 

    We welcome the announcement of this important agreement between two countries that are both vital markets in our global network. We look forward to continuing to help businesses of all sizes across the UK reach new customers in one of the world’s most populous and dynamic countries.

    Richard Heald, OBE, UK-India Business Council Chair said: 

    The UK India Business Council (UKIBC) welcomes the agreement of the new Free Trade Agreement between the United Kingdom and India. This marks a significant milestone in the deepening of economic and strategic ties between our two nations.  

    It matters when the fifth and sixth largest economies in the world reach a trade agreement. Such an agreement is illustrative of the positive momentum in the UK-India relationship, the commitment and ambition of both Governments, and the opportunities for greater trade, investment and collaboration between our countries.

    Notes to editors 

    • We have championed our values – securing India’s first ever chapters on anti-corruption, consumer protections, labour rights, gender, and development. We have protected the NHS, ensured the points-based immigration system is not affected, upheld our high food standards, and maintained our animal welfare commitments throughout. 

    Data sources for this release include: 

    • FTA economic impacts: DBT Technical Note: The preliminary economic impacts of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement 

    • India forecast to become the 3rd largest global economy within three years: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025

    • India is the fastest growing economy in the world: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025

    • India and the UK are the fifth and sixth largest economies: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025 

    • 1.9 million people with Indian heritage live in the UK: ONS 2021 Census

    • UK services exports are worth over £500 billion: ONS UK trade February 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Building the best future for Scotland

    Source: Scottish Government

    Programme for Government 2025-26.

    The NHS will deliver 100,000 additional GP appointments and Scotland will have a ‘best in UK’ cost-of-living guarantee, including the permanent abolition of peak rail fares, First Minister John Swinney announced as he set out a Programme for Government against a backdrop of global economic challenges. 

    Speaking one year since he was elected First Minister and one year before the end of this Parliament, Mr Swinney committed to a package of cost-of-living initiatives for households and businesses and a new Six Point Export Plan to unlock target markets. He set out plans to strengthen the NHS with the delivery of extra GP appointments for key health risks such as high blood pressure, and 150,000 more NHS appointments and procedures, including a 50% increase in surgical procedures such as hip and knee replacements.  

    Key announcements include:   

    • 100,000 enhanced service GP appointments by March 2026 for key risk factors including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high blood sugar, obesity and smoking as well as more than 150,000 extra appointments and procedures, including surgeries and diagnostic tests, and target cancer pathways to tackle backlogs against the 62-day referral to treatment standard 
    • The cost-of-living guarantee which includes ongoing free prescriptions, eye exams, bus travel for 2.3 million people, free tuition for students and more than £6,000 in early learning and childcare support for each eligible child 
    • ScotRail peak rail fares abolished and the general alcohol ban on ScotRail trains removed and replaced with time and location restrictions 
    • Winter fuel payments for pensioners restored 
    • A new Six Point Export Plan, with a focus on actions to unlock target markets, and showcase Scotland to global buyers 
    • A national regeneration fund that will support at least 26 projects to renew and restore communities, with a focus on delivering more local jobs 
    • More rights and stronger protections for tenants, helping deliver more than 8,000 affordable homes, including for social and mid-market rent, and removing barriers on stalled building sites with the potential to deliver up to 20,000 new homes 

    The First Minister said:  

     “This Programme for Government is focused on providing the best cost-of-living support across the UK, as well as delivering a renewed and stronger NHS.   

     “When I became First Minister a year ago, I heard loud and clear people’s concerns about the NHS which is why I am taking serious action to ensure the NHS meets the needs of the public.  

    “This PfG also shows decisive action to protect Scotland’s economy and maximise our economic potential in the face of global challenges.   

     “It is being published earlier than usual, in part because it allows a clear year of delivery on the NHS and other public services, but also due to the scale of the looming economic challenge.    

     “It is a programme for a better Scotland, for a stronger NHS and a more resilient and wealthier Scotland. It is a Programme for Government that gets our nation on track for success.”  

     Background  

    Read the Programme for Government 2025-26

    Read the First Minister’s statement to the Scottish Parliament, 6 May 2025

    The First Minister also confirmed Scottish Government plans to introduce six Bills over the course of the 2025-26 parliamentary year – alongside 2 Bills due to be introduced before summer recess and 14 Bills already before the Scottish Parliament – including:  

    Bills for introduction:  

    • Budget (No. 5)   
    • Children and Young People (Care)   
    • Contract (Formation and Remedies)   
    • Digital Assets    
    • Heat in Buildings   
    • Non-surgical Cosmetic Procedures   

     Bills from Year 4 programme which will be introduced before summer recess:  

    • Building Safety Levy   
    • Crofting and Scottish Land Court   

    Scottish Government Bills currently proceeding through Parliament:   

    • Care Reform   
    • Children (Withdrawal from Religious Education and Amendment of UNCRC Compatibility Duty)   
    • Community Wealth Building   
    • Criminal Justice Modernisation and Abusive Domestic Behaviour Reviews   
    • Education   
    • Housing   
    • Land Reform   
    • Leases (Automatic Continuation etc.)   
    • Natural Environment   
    • Regulation of Legal Services   
    • Scottish Languages   
    • Tertiary Education and Training (Funding and Governance)   
    • UEFA European Championship   
    • Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform 

    A’ togail an ama ri teachd as fheàrr do dh’Alba

    Am Prògram airson Riaghaltas 2025-26.

    Bheir an NHS seachad 100,000 coinneamh a bharrachd le dotairean-teaghlaich. Gheibh Alba cuideachd gealladh gur i an dùthaich san Rìoghachd Aonaichte far am faigh daoine an dòigh-bheatha as fheàrr a dh’aindeoin staing nan cosgaisean bith-beò – mar eisimpleir, le bhith a’ cur às do na faraidhean rèile as daoire aig Rèile na h-Alba. Mhìnich am Prìomh Mhinistear Iain Swinney seo is e a’ cur an cèill Prògram airson Riaghaltas mu choinneamh dhùbhlain eaconamach na cruinne.

    ’S e a’ bruidhinn aon bhliadhna bhon a chaidh a thaghadh mar Phrìomh Mhinistear is aon bhliadhna gun crìochnaich a’ Phàrlamaid seo, thug Mgr Swinney seachad gealladh gun cuireadh an Riaghaltas an sàs iomairtean a thaobh chosgaisean bith-beò às leth dhachaighean is ghnothachasan. Gheall e gun dèigheadh Plana ùr fhoillseachadh anns a bheil Sia Puingean a thaobh Às-mhalairt, gus fosgladh margaidhean air a bheil Alba ag amas. Mhìnich e cuideachd planaichean gus an NHS a neartachadh le bhith a’ toirt seachad barrachd choinneamhan le dotairean-teaghlaich airson prìomh chunnartan slàinte leithid brùthadh-fala àrd. A thuilleadh air an sin, thèid 150,000 coinneamh is obair-mheadaigeach a bharrachd a thoirt seachad fon NHS, agus nam measg bidh àrdachadh de 50% ann an obraichean-lannsa leithid a bhith a’ toirt chruaichnean is ghlùinean ùra do dhaoine.

    Mar phàirt de na prìomh rudan a thèid a chur an cèill tha:

    • 100,000 coinneamhan le dotairean-teaghlaich tron tèid seirbheis aig ìre nas àirde a thoirt seachad. Bidh seo air a choileanadh ron Mhàrt 2026 is dèiligidh iad ris na prìomh rudan a chomharras cunnartan slàinte, mar eisimpleir: brùthadh-fala àrd, coileastarail àrd, àrd-ìre de shiùcar-fala, reamhrachd agus smocadh. Thèid cuideachd 150,000 coinneamh is obair-mheadaigeach a bharrachd a thoirt seachad. Am measg iad seo bidh obraichean-lannsa is deuchainnean diagnosach, is slighean leigheis airson aillse gus an tèid dèiligeadh ri cùisean air an deach maill a chur. Bidh seo a’ coileanadh na bun-inbhe a chanas nach bi neach a’ feitheamh barrachd air 62 latha eadar iad a bhith a’ faighinn iomradh airson leigheas agus an leigheas fhèin.
    • Gealladh a thaobh chosgaisean bith-beò far an lean daoine orra a bhith a’ faighinn òrduighean-chungaidhean saor an-asgaidh, deuchainnean sùla, siubhal air bus do 2.3 millean neach, oideachadh saor an-asgaidh do dh’oileanaich agus còrr air £6000 as fhiach de thaic airson tràth-ionnsachadh is cùram-cloinne do gach leanabh aig a bheil cothrom air.
    • Gun tèid cur às do na faraidhean as àirde aig Rèile na h-Alba. Bidh cuideachd an casg a tha ann an-dràsta a thaobh a bhith ag òl deoch-làidir air a thoirt air falbh is bacaidhean sònraichte a rèir àm agus àite air an cur ann.
    • Gun tèid pàigheadh connaidh a’ Gheamhraidh do pheinnseanairean a thoirt air ais.
    • Plana ùr anns a bheil Sia Puingean a thaobh Às-mhalairt, a chuireas fòcas air gnìomhan gus fosgladh margaidhean air a bheil Alba ag amas, agus gus an dùthaich a thaisbeanadh do cheannaichean na cruinne.
    • Maoin ath-bheòthachaidh nàiseanta a chuireas taic ri co-dhiù 26 pròiseactan gus ath-nuadhachadh is ath-thogail a thoirt air coimhearsnachdan, is far am bi fòcas air barrachd obraichean ionadail ùra a thoirt seachad.
    • Barrachd chòraichean is ceumannan dìona nas treasa do luchd-gabhail, a chuidicheas ann a bhith a’ toirt seachad còrr air 8,000 dachaigh aig prìs reusanta, is cuid dhiubh sin air an cur a-mach air màl sòisealta no meadhan na margaidh. Thèid cuideachd cur às do chnapan-starra a tha a’ fàgail gu bheil cuid a làraichean togail nan tàmh – rud aig a bheil an comas a bhith a’ toirt seachad suas ri 20,000 dachaigh ùr.

    Thuirt am Prìomh Mhinistear:

    “Tha am Prògram airson Riaghaltas seo a’ cur fòcas air a bhith a’ toirt seachad na taice as fheàrr anns an Rìoghachd Aonaichte a thaobh chosgaisean bith-beò, a thuilleadh air a bhith a’ toirt seachad NHS a tha nas làidire agus air ùrachadh.

    “Nuair a chaidh mo thaghadh mar Phrìomh Mhinistear o chionn bliadhna, chaidh na draghan a tha aig daoine mun NHS a dhèanamh soilleir dhomh is ’s ann air sgàth sin a tha mi a’ cur an sàs ghnìomhan cudromach a nì cinnteach gu bheil an NHS a’ coileanadh feumalachdan a’ phobaill.

    “Anns a’ Phrògram seo chithear cuideachd gu bheil sinn a’ leantainn ghnìomhan le cinnt gus eaconamaidh na h-Alba a dhìon is làn-chomas na h-eaconamaidh againn a thoirt gu buil an aghaidh dhùbhlain aig ìre na cruinne.

     “Tha am Prògram air fhoillseachadh nas tràithe na ’s àbhaist, gu ìre seach gu bheil seo a’ toirt bliadhna shlàn far an urrainn do gheallaidhean a bhith air an coileanadh a thaobh an NHS is seirbheisean poblach eile, ach cuideachd air sgàth meud an dùbhlain eaconamaich a tha romhainn.

    “’S e prògram a tha ann airson Alba nas fheàrr, NHS nas làidire agus Alba a tha nas seasmhaiche agus nas beartaiche. ’S e seo Prògram airson Riaghaltas tron tèid an dùthaich againn a thilleadh don rathad as soirbheachaile.”

     Cùl-fhiosrachadh

    Dhearbh am Prìomh Mhinistear cuideachd na planaichean aig Riaghaltas na h-Alba gus sia Bilean a thoirt a-steach don phàrlamaid thairis air bliadhna na pàrlamaid 2025-26. Tha iad seo a thuilleadh air dà Bhile a tha san amharc tighinn do Phàrlamaid na h-Alba ro fhosadh an t-samhraidh agus 14 Bile a tha mu thràth mu choinneamh na Pàrlamaid. Nam measg, tha:

    Bilean rin toirt a-steach: 

    • Buidseat (Àir. 5)  
    • Clann agus Daoine Òga (Cùram)  
    • Cùmhnant (Cruthachadh agus Leasachadh)  
    • Maoinean Didseatach
    • Teas ann an Togalaichean
    • Obraichean-maise air nach fheum Obair-lannsa

    Bilean bho phrògram Bliadhna 4 a thèid a chur don phàrlamaid ro fhosadh an t-samhraidh: 

    • Bile na Cìse airson Sàbhailteachd Thogalaichean
    • Bile na Croitearachd agus Cùirt Fearainn na h-Alba

    Bilean le Riaghaltas na h-Alba a tha sa Phàrlamaid:  

    • Bile airson Ath-leasachadh Cùraim  
    • Bile na Cloinne (A bhith a’ tighinn a-mach à Foghlam Creidimh agus Atharrachadh air Dleastanas Co-fhreagarrachd an UNCRC)
    • Bile airson Togail Beartas Choimhearsnachdan
    • Bile airson Ùrachadh Ceartas Eucorach is Sgrùdaidhean air Giùlan Mì-ghnàthach san Dachaigh
    • Bile an Fhoghlaim  
    • Bile an Taigheadais
    • Bile airson Ath-leasachadh Fearainn
    • Bile na Gabhalach (Fèin-leantainn msaa.)
    • Bile na h-Àrainneachd Nàdarra
    • Bile airson Riaghladh Sheirbheisean Lagha
    • Bile nan Cànan Albannach
    • Bile airson Foghlam agus Trèanadh Iar-sgoile (Maoineachadh agus Riaghladh)
    • Bile airson Co-fharpais Eòrpach UEFA
    • Bile airson Ath-leasachadh a thaobh Luchd-fulaing, Luchd-fianais agus Ceartas

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Ultimus Enhances Comprehensive Private Credit Fund Administration to Support Investment Managers

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CINCINNATI, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ultimus Fund Solutions® (Ultimus®), a leading provider of comprehensive fund administration solutions, is pleased to announce it has expanded its comprehensive private credit fund administration services capabilities to address the evolving needs of private credit managers and increased demand in today’s dynamic investment landscape.

    With private credit strategies gaining significant traction, managing the intricate workflows and lifecycle of loans can present a complex series of challenges without the appropriate infrastructure. Recognizing these hurdles, Ultimus delivers an advanced solution designed to provide efficiency and oversight of private credit investments.

    “Our clients benefit from our best in class, fully integrated infrastructure that enables them to achieve their investment goals without being hindered by operational complexities,” remarked Gary Tenkman, Chief Executive Officer. “Ultimus delivers a powerful combination of expertise, technology, and precision to effectively support private credit management.”

    The Ultimus private credit team specializes in post-trade workflows, with deep expertise in tracking both syndicated and private loans. With the ability to facilitate the setup of various credit instruments, Ultimus’ accounting platform automates data flow from clients, agent banks, and third-party vendors for seamless integration and complete transparency. The private credit team collaborates closely with lenders, clients, and agent banks to accurately track loan positions, empowering credit managers to focus on broader investment goals without operational concerns.

    Ultimus’ private credit fund administration encompasses a wide range of solutions to meet the rigorous demands of credit managers, including trade capture, credit lifecycle activity, reconciliation, bank resolution, profit and loss (PnL) reporting, and advanced investment manager reporting.

    Key Services Provided by Ultimus Include:

    • Data Integration & Workflow: Trade capture, security master setup, credit facility position confirmation, and pricing via leading systems like FIS® Virtus, Xceptor and S&P Global.
    • Investment Manager Reporting: Custom reporting and flexible data analytics via FIS® Hedge Fund Portfolio Manager (HFPM) and other tools.
    • Accounting System: HFPM integrates security master services, transaction processing, position/cash reconciliation, PnL calculation, and pricing/reference data management to provide a streamlined accounting workflow.
    • Auxiliary Workflows: Document management, credit ratings, and classification services to maintain comprehensive operational oversight.

    These services are further enhanced by Ultimus’ ability to scale workflows efficiently and leverage data across its extensive client network. Ultimus also maintains strong industry relationships and access to real-time information, ensuring delivery of enriched data points to alleviate operational workloads for client teams.

    “As credit managers face increasing complexities in managing their loan portfolios, Ultimus brings scalability, precision, and a commitment to operational excellence,” said Jim Cass, President at Ultimus. “Our solutions are designed to streamline workflows, enhance data accessibility, and free up resources so our clients can focus on growing their portfolios. We are already seeing increased interest and demand for our tech-driven solutions.”

    Ultimus’ extensive track record and expertise in private credit fund administration provide private credit managers with the confidence to take on complex credit strategies. The advanced platforms and workflows are designed to empower clients to scale their portfolios while maintaining operational clarity and precision.

    About Ultimus
    Ultimus Fund Solutions (Ultimus) is a leading provider of full-service tech-enhanced fund administration, accounting, middle office, and investor solutions to support the launching and servicing of registered funds, private funds, and public plans. The company also offers customized structures designed for the unique needs of pensions, endowments, foundations, and other large institutions. Ultimus’ deep commitment to excellence is achieved through investments in best-in-class technology, compliance programs, organization-wide cyber security efforts, and hiring seasoned professionals.

    Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, with offices in other major cities such as New York, Philadelphia, Denver, and Omaha, Ultimus employs more than 1,100 seasoned accountants, attorneys, paralegals, application developers, fund administrators, compliance specialists, and many others with years of experience in the financial services industry. Servicing over 2,100 total traditional and alternative funds, Ultimus helps investment managers and fund families flourish in today’s increasingly sophisticated and dynamic investment landscape. For more information, visit www.ultimusfundsolutions.com.

    CONTACT: Marketing@UltimusFundSolutions.com

    COD00000679 5/5/2025

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK signs trade deal with India

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK signs trade deal with India

    Multi-billion-pound boost to UK economy with landmark India trade deal to make working people better off

    • Huge economic win for UK as trade deal with India agreed which will deliver for working people and British businesses 

    • Deal will slash Indian tariffs on key products such as whisky, cosmetics and medical devices, locking in reductions on 90% of tariff lines for UK exports to unleash opportunities for businesses across regions and nations of UK 

    • Delivers on Plan for Change as £4.8 billion added to UK economy and £2.2 billion in wages every year in the long run under deal 

    The UK and India have today agreed a landmark trade deal which delivers on this government’s core mission of growing the economy, raising living standards, and putting money in people’s pockets. 

    Indian tariffs will be slashed, locking in reductions on 90% of tariff lines, with 85% of these becoming fully tariff-free within a decade. 

    Whisky and gin tariffs will be halved from 150% to 75% before reducing to 40% by year ten of the deal, while automotive tariffs will go from over 100% to 10% under a quota. 

    Other goods with reduced tariffs, which can open markets and make trade cheaper for businesses and Indian consumers, include cosmetics, aerospace, lamb, medical devices, salmon, electrical machinery, soft drinks, chocolate and biscuits.  

    British shoppers could see cheaper prices and more choice on products including clothes, footwear, and food products including frozen prawns as UK liberalises tariffs. 

    The deal is expected to increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion, UK GDP by £4.8 billion and wages by £2.2 billion each year in the long run. 

    UK businesses gain a competitive edge over international competitors when entering India’s enormous market as it gets even bigger, forecasted to become the 3rd largest global economy within three years. 

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds and Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal held final talks in London last week after relaunching negotiations only two months ago. Negotiators across both sides have worked around the clock since February to get this deal done, which is the biggest and most economically significant bilateral trade deal the UK has done since leaving the EU, and the best deal India has ever agreed. 

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 

    We are now in a new era for trade and the economy. That means going further and faster to strengthen the UK’s economy, putting more money in working people’s pockets.  

    Through this government’s stable and pragmatic leadership, the UK has become an attractive place to do business. Today we have agreed a landmark deal with India – one of the fastest growing economies in the world, which will grow the economy and deliver for British people and business.  

    Strengthening our alliances and reducing trade barriers with economies around the world is part of our Plan for Change to deliver a stronger and more secure economy here at home.   

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: 

    This government’s number one mission is growing the economy as part of our Plan for Change so we can put more money in people’s pockets.  

    By striking a new trade deal with the fastest-growing economy in the world, we are delivering billions for the UK economy and wages every year and unlocking growth in every corner of the country, from advanced manufacturing in the North East to whisky distilleries in Scotland. 

    In times of global uncertainty, a pragmatic approach to global trade that provides businesses and consumers with stability is more important than ever.

    At least 1.9 million people with Indian heritage call the UK their home and striking this deal will strengthen the vital partnership between our two democracies. 

    The benefits for UK businesses and consumers under this deal are massive, with wins across an array of sectors.  

    Notes to editors 

    Benefits for businesses of all sizes 

    Barriers to trading will be dropped, with India agreeing to reduce tariffs on a whole host of products including whisky, medical devices, advanced machinery, and lamb, making UK exports more competitive. Based on 2022 trade alone, this amounts to India cutting tariffs worth over £400 million when the deal comes into force, which will more than double to around £900 million after 10 years.  

    Exporting to this huge market will be easier than ever before thanks to India agreeing to release goods as quickly as possible after arrival at customs, work with the UK on one streamlined portal for trade and publish customs procedures and laws online in English. In addition, new digital commitments will support electronic contracts and transactions. These changes could particularly support small and medium-sized businesses, making it easier for them to enter the Indian market. 

    Delivering for high-growth sectors 

    High-growth sectors identified in the Industrial Strategy are supported through this deal, including: 

    • Tariffs cut on the UK’s large and varied advanced manufacturing sectors from aerospace and automotive, electrical circuits and conductors, and high-end optical products. 

    • The clean energy industry will have brand new, unprecedented access to India’s vast procurement market as the country makes the switch to renewable energy and continues to see growing energy demand. 

    • Reduced tariffs on medical devices that take the UK’s complex supply chains into consideration will unleash new opportunities for the UK life sciences sector. 

    • Enhanced copyright protections for the creative sector will give exporters confidence thanks to a commitment that their work will continue to be protected for at least 60 years. 

    • World-class UK services sectors – who export just over £500 billion worldwide will now benefit from market certainty when trading into the growing Indian market. 

    More choice and protections for consumers 

    As bilateral trade grows under this deal, the UK will benefit from the best India has to offer with British shoppers enjoying access to a greater variety of clothes and shoes.  New commitments will also help protect consumers from spam texts from India, which could include requiring opt-out or prior consent. 

    Mark Kent, Chief Executive of the Scotch Whisky Association, welcomed the “transformational” deal: 

    The UK-India free trade agreement is a once in a generation deal and a landmark moment for Scotch Whisky exports to the world’s largest whisky market. It shows that the UK government is making significant progress towards achieving its growth mission, and the Scotch Whisky industry looks forward to working with the UK and Indian governments in the months ahead to implement the deal, which would be a big boost to two major global economies during turbulent times. 

    The reduction of the current 150% tariff on Scotch Whisky will be transformational for the industry, and has the potential to increase Scotch Whisky exports to India by £1bn over the next 5 years, creating 1,200 jobs across the UK. It will also give discerning consumers in India far greater choice of brands, as more SME Scotch Whisky producers have the opportunity to enter the market.” 

    Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said:  

    India continues to be incredibly important to the Premier League and its clubs. It is a vibrant country that presents exciting opportunities and significant potential. The Premier League’s recent announcement of an office opening in Mumbai demonstrates our commitment to build on longstanding work to engage local fans, develop grassroots and elite football and further promote the game in India. 

    The continued growth of the Premier League and UK businesses in India will have a positive impact on our domestic economy and we welcome the news of this new trade deal secured by Government, which will support UK businesses operating in India.” 

    Bill Winters CBE, Group CEO of Standard Chartered and Co-Chair of the UK-India Financial Partnership, said:

    The UK-India Free Trade Agreement is a significant achievement. It will create new opportunities for UK and Indian businesses, enable greater access to one of the world’s largest and most dynamic markets, and drive growth and innovation across the UK-India corridor. We welcome this strong commitment to partnership and prosperity.   

    Markus Kessler, Managing Director, UPS UK, Ireland and Nordics said: 

    We welcome the announcement of this important agreement between two countries that are both vital markets in our global network. We look forward to continuing to help businesses of all sizes across the UK reach new customers in one of the world’s most populous and dynamic countries.

    Richard Heald, OBE, UK-India Business Council Chair said: 

    The UK India Business Council (UKIBC) welcomes the agreement of the new Free Trade Agreement between the United Kingdom and India. This marks a significant milestone in the deepening of economic and strategic ties between our two nations.  

    It matters when the fifth and sixth largest economies in the world reach a trade agreement. Such an agreement is illustrative of the positive momentum in the UK-India relationship, the commitment and ambition of both Governments, and the opportunities for greater trade, investment and collaboration between our countries.

    Notes to editors 

    • We have championed our values – securing India’s first ever chapters on anti-corruption, consumer protections, labour rights, gender, and development. We have protected the NHS, ensured the points-based immigration system is not affected, upheld our high food standards, and maintained our animal welfare commitments throughout. 

    Data sources for this release include: 

    • FTA economic impacts: [DBT Technical Note(https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-india-free-trade-agreement-technical-note)]: The preliminary economic impacts of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement 

    • India forecast to become the 3rd largest global economy within three years: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025

    • India is the fastest growing economy in the world: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025

    • India and the UK are the fifth and sixth largest economies: IMF World Economic Outlook April 2025 

    • 1.9 million people with Indian heritage live in the UK: ONS 2021 Census

    • UK services exports are worth over £500 billion: ONS UK trade February 2025

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with Prime Minister Modi of India: 6 May 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    PM call with Prime Minister Modi of India: 6 May 2025

    The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi today.

    The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi today. 

    The leaders began by celebrating the landmark UK-India Free Trade Agreement announced today – a deal which will add billions to the UK economy, boost wages and deliver on this government’s Plan for Change. 

    In a huge economic win for the UK, delivering for working people and British businesses, the Prime Minister underscored the need to go further and faster to get things done, to secure and renew our country.

    Through pragmatism and purpose, the leaders noted that this historic deal is the biggest the UK has done since leaving the EU, and the most ambitious India has ever done. Prime Minister Modi also thanked the Prime Minister for his decisive leadership in getting the deal over the line. 

    Turning to the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir last month, the Prime Minister reiterated his deep condolences at the tragic and senseless loss of life. 

    Finally, Prime Minister Modi extended an invitation to India, which the Prime Minister was pleased to accept and said he looked forward to visiting India at the earliest opportunity.

    They looked forward to speaking soon.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: American Rebel Light Beer Expands into Florida with North Florida Sales Distribution Agreement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nashville, TN, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) (“American Rebel” or the “Company”), creator of American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) and a designer, manufacturer, and marketer of branded safes, personal security and self-defense products and apparel (americanrebel.com), is proud to announce its newest distribution agreement with North Florida Sales (nfsinfo.com), a premier beverage distributor serving the Northeast Florida market. This collaboration and expansion into Florida is another bold step in American Rebel’s mission to bring high-quality, American-made beer to hardworking, freedom-loving patriots across the Sunshine State.

    “We believe in the American dream – hard work, perseverance, and celebrating the freedoms that make this country great,” said Todd Porter, President of American Rebel Beverage. “Partnering with North Florida Sales allows us to share that spirit with more people in Florida. Their commitment to excellence, combined with their deep-rooted relationships in the market, makes them the perfect ally in our mission to expand American Rebel’s presence nationwide.”

    Gentry Pelham, President and Owner of North Florida Sales, echoed that enthusiasm, stating: “North Florida Sales is extremely excited for the opportunity to partner up with American Rebel. We can’t wait to introduce this amazing product to the Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Lake City markets.”

    North Florida Sales has long been recognized for its dedication to delivering quality beverages while building lasting partnerships with retailers and consumers. With an extensive network and a passion for serving their communities, they will help bring American Rebel Light Beer to even more bars, restaurants, and stores across Florida.

    “We’re very excited to be expanding into Florda,” said American Rebel CEO Andy Ross. “American Rebel Beer sponsored the Scag Pro Superstar Shootout this past February at the Bradenton Motorsports Park and I’ve done television interviews in Tampa, West Palm Beach and Miami and performed in Florida several times. Look out Florida, America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer is coming. Florida is going to be a strong state for us and I couldn’t be more proud to get to work with the great team at North Florida Sales.”

    As American Rebel Beverage continues its rapid growth, the brand remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting patriotic values and celebrating the American spirit. Since its launch in September 2024, American Rebel Light Beer has earned loyal consumers across Tennessee, Connecticut, Kansas, Kentucky, Ohio, Iowa, Missouri, North Carolina, Indiana, Mississippi and now Florida – proving that there’s nothing more American than great beer and a good time.

    American Rebel Light is a proudly American-made premium domestic light lager, delivering a crisp, clean, and bold taste with a lighter feel. Crafted with all-natural ingredients and NO added sweeteners like corn or rice, it offers a refreshing balance of flavor with 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% ABV per 12 oz serving. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a tailgate, or a weekend at the racetrack, American Rebel Light is brewed for the bold, the free, and the proud.

    For more information about American Rebel Light and its new distribution agremeent with North Florida Sales, follow us on social media @AmericanRebelBeer or on the web at americanrebelbeer.com.

    About American Rebel Light

    American Rebel Light isn’t just a beer – it’s a statement. A toast to freedom, a salute to hard-working Americans, and a bold declaration of our patriotic values. As America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer, Produced in partnership with AlcSource, American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) is a premium domestic light lager celebrated for its exceptional quality and patriotic values. It stands out as America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer.

    American Rebel Light is a Premium Domestic Light Lager Beer – All Natural, Crisp, Clean and Bold Taste with a Lighter Feel. With approximately 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% alcoholic content per 12 oz serving, American Rebel Light Beer delivers a lighter option for those who love great beer but prefer a more balanced lifestyle. It’s all natural with no added supplements and importantly does not use corn, rice, or other sweeteners typically found in mass produced beers. For more information follow American Rebel Beer on all social media platforms (@americanrebelbeer).

    About North Florida Sales

    North Florida Sales (NFS) is a locally owned and operated company and covers all or part of 11 counties in Florida. These counties include Duval, Nassau, St. John’s, Putnam, Clay, Bradford, Union, Baker, Columbia, Hamilton and Suwannee. Started in 1995, NFS strives to be a leader in sales and service in the beverage industry in Jacksonville and Lake City, FL. NFS’s mission is to provide the highest quality customer service on a consistent basis, while ensuring the availability of the freshest and cleanest product possible. For more information on North Florida Sales, go to nfsinfo.com.

    About American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) has operated primarily as a designer, manufacturer and marketer of branded safes and personal security and self-defense products and has recently transitioned into the beverage industry through the introduction of American Rebel Light Beer. The Company also designs and produces branded apparel and accessories. To learn more, visit americanrebel.com and americanrebelbeer.com. For investor information, visit americanrebelbeer.com/investor-relations.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    info@americanrebel.com
     ir@americanrebel.com

    Media Contact:
    Matt Sheldon
    Matt@PrecisionPR.co

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. American Rebel Holdings, Inc., (NASDAQ: AREB; AREBW) (the “Company,” “American Rebel,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include benefits of our strategic planning, marketing outreach efforts, actual placement timing and availability of American Rebel Beer, success and availability of the promotional activities, our ability to effectively execute our business plan, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Free Psychic Reading Online by Chat [2025] Best Free Psychics for Accurate Readings!

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, CA, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In today’s fast-paced world, more people are turning to spiritual tools to gain clarity and direction. Whether you’re dealing with a relationship dilemma, career confusion, or life transitions, a free psychic reading online can offer valuable insight, all from the comfort of your home. Best of all, you can now connect instantly through free psychic chat with certified advisors and get accurate answers in real time.

    The-Psychic-Experts.com, a leading platform in reviewing free psychic services, has officially announced its 2025 rankings for the best free psychic reading platforms that are available online. 

    Discover your future with an accurate free psychic reading online and unlock answers through free psychic chat with gifted intuitive advisors!

    ⇒ Connect with the best free psychics for love, career, and more!

    What Is a Free Psychic Reading Online?

    A free psychic reading online allows you to connect with a psychic advisor over the internet—usually via chat, video, or email—without any upfront cost. Many reputable psychic platforms offer introductory sessions so that new users can experience the service without financial commitment.

    These sessions typically last 3 to 10 minutes and are ideal for asking simple questions or getting a feel for the psychic’s energy and accuracy.

    ⇒ Discover what’s ahead by connecting with the best free psychics online!

    What Is Free Psychic Chat?

    Free psychic chat is a live text-based communication feature that lets you speak directly with a psychic in real time. Unlike phone or video readings, chat is discreet, fast, and easy to use—perfect for users who prefer privacy or quick answers.

    Psychic chat platforms often include features such as:

    • Real-time typing and responses
    • Saved chat history for future reference
    • Ratings and reviews of each advisor
    • Topic filters (e.g., love, career, spiritual guidance)

    Enjoy a free psychic reading online and use free psychic chat to gain clarity, peace of mind, and guidance from experienced psychic experts.

    ⇒ Start s free psychic chat and find answers to your deepest questions!

    Main Benefits of Using Free Psychic Reading and Chat Services

    1. Convenience
     Access guidance 24/7 from anywhere in the world—no appointments needed.

    2. Privacy
     Chat-based readings allow you to stay anonymous while discussing personal matters.

    3. Clarity Before You Pay
     With a free psychic chat, you can evaluate the reader’s accuracy before committing to a paid session.

    4. Wide Range of Experts
     Choose from advisors specializing in tarot, astrology, mediumship, numerology, and more.

    ⇒ Chat with the best free psychics online and explore your future!

    How to Choose a Trustworthy Free Psychic Online

    Not all psychic platforms are equal. Here’s what to look for:

    • Verified Reviews: Read ratings and feedback from real users.
    • Free Intro Offers: Look for platforms that offer several free minutes.
    • Transparency: Check the advisor’s bio, specialties, and tools used.
    • Customer Support: Reliable platforms offer 24/7 assistance in case of technical issues.

    Top-rated psychic sites often include filters to help you choose a psychic by category (love, career, etc.), reading style (compassionate, direct), and tool (tarot, clairvoyance, etc.).

    ⇒ Ask a psychic your most urgent question free of charge!

    Best Times to Use Free Psychic Chat

    • When facing an urgent decision and needing fast clarity
    • After a breakup or during a relationship crisis
    • When changing jobs or considering a move
    • During emotional stress or uncertainty
    • For ongoing spiritual growth or guidance

    ⇒ Discover your future with a free psychic reading and real insight

    Psychic Experts: Your Go-To Resource for Free Psychic Readings in 2025

    Digital access is growing the demand for online services, and the same is true for psychic services. The psychic experts recognize that online users often get nervous when trying to choose between different psychic services, since all of them claim accuracy and authenticity. 

    This year’s “Best Free Psychic Reading Online for 2025” list was meticulously curated for this very reason. It is based on verified user feedback, psychic credentials, and ease of access. And it also particularly focuses on free psychic chat and ask a free psychic question services.

    So if you are looking for free psychic love readings, or simply want to know about your future via free psychic reading by date of birth and time, the-psychic-experts.com will help its users find authentic guidance in the world of psychics in an affordable way.

    ⇒ Receive a free psychic reading from experienced, trusted advisors!

    Why Free Psychic Readings Are on the Rise

    Free psychic readings have always been popular among those who know its worth. These are considered a spiritual outlet for people who have questions about the unknown or are in search of clarity. However, the online psychic popularity has made it easier than ever to ask a free psychic question online, from the comfort of your home. 

    So whether you are into clairvoyance, tarot, astrology, or mediumship, you can be guaranteed that these services are now available online. Most platforms now offer:

    • Free trial readings online
    • Online psychic chat sessions
    • Free psychic chat sessions online
    • One free psychic question before you pay for the full session
    • Free psychic reading by date of birth and time
    • Free psychic readings online with no credit card.

    This freedom for the user, that they are allowed to test out a service before paying in full, makes a free psychic reading the first step that introduces them to the mystical world.

    ⇒  Find peace and clarity through a free psychic reading with gifted advisors!

    Who Are These Readings For?

    Free psychic readings are for everyone. Anyone can benefit from the spiritual guidance, whether they are dealing with personal issues or professional performances.

    The beauty of free psychic readings online is how they cater to absolutely everyone, including;

    • Singles who are looking for love
    • Couples who are in a relationship struggle
    • Professionals who need guidance when stuck at career crossroads
    • Students who want to explore purpose in life and career direction
    • Grieving individuals who want to seek comfort and connection with passed away loved ones.

    Psychic readings can change the minds of anyone. Even skeptics admit that they walked away feeling much lighter, mind clearer, and more confident.

    ⇒ Ask a free psychic question and receive spiritual guidance on love, career, or life direction.

    Benefits of Free Online Psychic Readings

    Free online psychic readings have many benefits. Because they are; a) free, and b) available online. 

    Unlike traditional in-person visits, the online psychic readings do not cost hundreds per hour. The online services offer access, affordability, and privacy. 

    Other key benefits include:

    Convenience

    Online psychic readings are convenient. The psychic expert steps in to offer its users complete convenience and authenticity. You can get a free psychic reading via online chat, and no credit card is required no matter if you accessing the online service from anywhere in the world.

    Variety of Readers

    Psychic reading isn’t just restricted to palm or tarot readings. With the psychic expert’s recommendations, you can access multiple psychic readers, from empaths and mediums to energy readers and clairvoyants.

    ⇒ Explore the best free psychic reading services trusted by thousands around the world!

    No Pressure

    The psychic experts ensure that their users feel completely at ease when availing any of the online services. You can first test the waters with a free psychic question, and then, if you feel a connection with the reader, you can continue at your own pace.

    How Free Psychic Reading Works

    Many free psychic services, such as the ones rated and reviewed by the psychic experts, follow a similar process:

    1. The user chooses their reader (based on profile, ratings, or specialization).
    2. Then, ask a free psychic question via chat or phone.
    3. Then receive a brief but insightful reading, which is enough to decide if they would like to go further.
    4. Then the reader offers an option to continue for a fee or end the session after the free portion.

    ⇒  Chat with the best free psychics today for answers, healing, and spiritual guidance!

    What Makes a Great Free Psychic Reading Site in 2025?

    The psychic experts don’t claim to be a great psychic reading website for no reason. There are many standards that it follows to ensure that the users are 100% satisfied with the services.

    The psychic experts vet their psychics via multi-step background and skill evaluations. The higher they score, the higher they are rated. Genuine reviews also help them identify the psychics who truly deliver versus those who just talk. Specializations, such as love psychics, energy healers, astrologers, and tarot experts, are all represented individually. And lastly, no credit card is required for the first reading. Users can simply get a free psychic reading online chat with no credit card, which reduces inconvenience and friction and increases trust in the psychic experts.

    Here are some of the most common psychic reading services at the-psychic-experts.com.

    Love Life On The Rocks? Try a Free Psychic Love Reading

    Many people arrive at the psychic experts, unsure about the idea whether their partner is “the one,” or sometimes they are dealing with a breakup, or wondering about future compatibility. Free psychic love readings offer a non-judgmental insight in these matters. 

    ⇒  Unlock love insights with a free psychic love reading from trusted advisors!

    Get Answers with Just a Name or Birth Date

    Some platforms on the psychic experts even offer free psychic readings by date of birth and time, or just your name and one question. These readings heavily lean on astrology or numerology, and they are also perfect for long-term clarity. However, it doesn’t always result in immediate answers.

    Free psychic readings by date of birth and time are best for:

    • Major life decisions
    • Birth chart readings
    • Career mapping
    • Family patterns
    • Generational healing.

    Many users come to the psychic experts with questions like:

    • “Will I find love this year?”
    • “Is my ex thinking about me?”
    • “Should I change careers now or should I wait?”
    • “What is blocking my happiness?”
    • “What’s my purpose in life?”

    … and so many other questions like these.

    ⇒ Start a free psychic chat and connect instantly with gifted advisors online!

    Common Questions Regarding Free Psychic Reading Online Chats

    Users of the psychic experts are as curious about the free psychic reading services as they are about their future. Here is a breakdown of some of the most commonly asked questions about free psychic reading online chats.

    1. What Happens During a Free Psychic Reading Online Chat?

    During free psychic readings via chat, readers offer complete discretion and instant access, which means that you can enter a live chat session with a psychic with your questions in mind, and enjoy a few free minutes to explore their commitment and connection before paying for their services.

    During a free psychic chat session:

    • You’ll be asked to provide your name and birth details (possibly).
    • The psychic will then begin tuning into your energy.
    • You can type your question in the chat box.
    • Responses come in real-time
    • However, you can always request clarification as needed.

    ⇒ Ask a free psychic question and get quick, honest answers!

    2. Can You Trust a Free Psychic?

    Many people are skeptical about psychic readings. However, the skepticism stems from a lack of knowledge or misunderstanding. It is important to understand that not all psychic platforms operate with integrity. This is precisely why the psychic experts exist. They test, compare, and rank psychic services so that you don’t have to risk your time or emotions to fraudulent psychic readers.

    The readers at The-Psychic-Experts.com are;

    • Transparent: Clear about what is free and what isn’t.
    • Verified: Authentic user feedback verifies genuine profiles.
    • Screened: Vetted for experience and accuracy.
    • Guaranteed: Offer money-back or satisfaction guarantees.

    3. Can I Get a Free Psychic Love Reading?

    Yes, you can get a free psychic love reading.

    One of the most in-demand categories of online psychic reading services is free psychic love reading. Psychics in this field of specialization can offer:

    • Insights about your current relationship
    • Whether you should stay or move on
    • Energy readings and knowledge about your romantic compatibility
    • Predictions about any future romantic encounters

    Many users begin with a fun and free psychic love reading. Which then goes on to become regular clients due to the commitment, value, and exceptional knowledge they receive.

    ⇒ Start a free psychic love reading and understand your emotional journey!

    What to Expect During Your First Free Psychic Reading

    Your first free psychic reading (or online psychic reading) can be overwhelming, curious, and exciting. 

    People have claimed that during their first free psychic reading session, they had a million thoughts running through their minds. 

    Here’s something we need to tell you: A psychic reading goes extremely well when you’re well-prepared. It can feel like a thoughtful, soul-searching, heart-to-heart conversation. And it will surely leave you feeling much lighter, more self-aware, and in control of your life.

    To reduce your nervousness, here are all the things that you can expect from your first free psychic reading, no matter if it is in-person or online.

    ⇒ Free psychic chat available now with accurate, real-time responses!

    The Atmosphere and Energy

    Whether it’s in person, over the phone, or via chat, the ambiance matters. 

    Psychics usually begin by helping you feel comfortable. They will ask for your name and birthdate, and then begin with a short grounding ritual. 

    Some will also explain how this whole process works, whether it’s through tarot, clairvoyance, mediumship, or energy reading.

    Don’t worry. You’re not expected to say much at the beginning. Just be present for the reading and receptive to its knowledge. A cold reading is where the psychic has no prior info about you, and it can be especially powerful in validating the psychic’s skills. 

    You might even come to know things that seem oddly specific or feel extremely personal.

    What You Want to Hear

    A psychic will never tell you what you want to hear. Rather, they will tell you what is true and specific. Their role is not to hide the truth from you or to sugarcoat, but rather to convey messages or insights that they receive from the physical realm, even if those truths are difficult. 

    No, that doesn’t mean they’ll predict doom for you. Reputable psychics mostly focus on the good things, such as healing. They may gently guide you toward an uncomfortable realization or a hard truth, but they will also provide guidance and strength to face it.

    Psychics can also confirm things you’ve felt but couldn’t articulate. This spiritual validation can be life-changing and is one of the reasons why people go to psychics for readings.

    ⇒ Chat live with the best free psychics and ask anything you want!

    Different Types of Free Psychic Readings: Which One Is Right for You?

    There are different styles of psychic readings, and no two of them work the same way. Choosing the right type of reading depends on what you’re seeking.

    1. Tarot Card Reading

    Tarot is one of the most common reading tools that psychics use. Here is what happens in this reading; the deck is filled with symbolic cards that look into your subconscious and spiritual energy. Then, a tarot reader will use spreads like the Celtic Cross or Three-Card Spread to gain even more insight into questions like love, finances, or your life’s purpose.

    Tarot reading is less about “fortune-telling” and more about identifying patterns and paths towards which your life is headed.

    2. Love Readings

    Love readings focus on love, and specifically on matters of the heart. These could be romantic relationships, soul mates, and breakups, etc. During love readings, users sometimes want to know if their current partner is “the one,” or whether their ex still have feelings for them, or what hurdles are preventing them from finding love.

    A love psychic will look into the energy between two people and read patterns even if one of them isn’t physically present. You can also avail of love reading services online for free at the-psychic-experts.com.

    ⇒ Get a love-focused free psychic reading and make better choices

    3. Mediumship

    Mediumship is another type of psychic reading in which mediums connect with spirits. 

    For example, if a person or an online user has lost a loved one and is looking for closure or a sign from the other side, a medium will help them bridge that gap. They can convey messages from the other side and thus bring peace, closure, or comfort to their client.

    Not all psychics are mediums. And many of them claim to be mediums but are actually not. So make sure that you are choosing someone with this specific gift if that’s your goal.

    4. Past Life Readings

    Many people feel a strong connection to a place, era, or person. This is where past life readings come into play. A past life psychic reading delves into the idea that our souls may have lived multiple times before and that past experiences resurface to influence us today.

    These psychic readings can be insightful for the curious mind. Especially if a person is struggling with repetitive patterns, or unexplainable fears, or deep soul connections.

    ⇒ Ask a free psychic question now and explore new possibilities

    5. Dream Interpretation

    Dream interpretation is also an important psychic reading, as dreams and nightmares often plague the sleep of people. Psychics believe that dreams are the soul’s way of processing information from both this world and beyond it. 

    These psychics can decode the symbolic language of dreams and thus reveal hidden messages, suppressed emotions, or spiritual messages.

    What NOT to Do During a Free Psychic Reading

    Free psychic readings are meant to be emotional and even life-changing. But it has rules, and there are things that you should not do. If you don’t show up with the right mindset, the readings will not go well. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a skeptic or a believer; your energy and behavior matter a lot during a reading.

    So, before you hop on a call, book a one-on-one session, or choose a free online psychic reading via chat, here are a few common mistakes that you should avoid if you don’t want to disturb your psychic reading session.

    ⇒ Try a free psychic reading and see what’s coming next in life!

    1. Forgetting To Skip the Recording

    If you think that you’ll remember everything a psychic tells you, then you are wrong. Especially if it’s an emotional session. Psychic readings can often involve many insights, revelations, and moments that can leave you stunned or distracted. 

    This is why it’s not only smart but also very important to record your session. Whether you are taking a psychic reading on your phone, a chat, or during a physical session, keep a voice recorder or even handwritten notes to record everything.

    Most professional psychics allow recording (in fact, many encourage it). Recordings will give you the chance to revisit the reading with a fresh mindset. You might catch details that you didn’t fully accept the first time, or connect dots, or a message with something you later discover to be true. 

    However, always ask for permission from your psychic before recording. It’s respectful and sets up mutual trust between both parties.

    ⇒ Get Clarity Now – Ask a Free Psychic Question Instantly!

    2. Don’t Try to “Trick” the Psychic

    People who come to psychics with a skeptical mindset try to test the psychic by feeding them false information, or they also try to withhold details just to “see what they say.” 

    While it’s natural to be on guard and feel cautious, especially when the reading is free, at least don’t try to outsmart or mislead a psychic for the following reasons.

    First, you’re not giving an authentic energy to begin with. They cannot read that. Most psychics work in collaboration with your energy field, and not just guess facts about your life. So, if you block that energy, the session will become confusing for both of you. 

    Second, some mediums work with spiritual guides or spirits. And they will definitely call you out. Which will lead to disagreement between the reader and the client. 

    And lastly, it’s just a waste of time. If you’re going to lie during a reading, then don’t go. Only honesty leads to clarity in this case.

    ⇒  Start your free psychic reading today and receive instant clarity!

    3. Don’t Show Up Under the Influence

    It doesn’t matter if you’re feeling nervous or just got back from a happy hour; showing up intoxicated to a psychic reading is not the right way to do this. 

    Alcohol or drugs will alter your emotional and energetic state, and thus, make it extremely hard for a psychic to read your energies and spiritual connections easily. But that’s not all. It will also affect your ability to focus, you will have difficulty remembering details, and won’t be able to respond to the information that is being shared by the reader.

    Plus, some psychics will even outright refuse to read a person who seems to be inebriated. Which makes sense, because it’s unprofessional and it can derail the whole experience of psychic reading.

    4. Don’t Dictate the Session

    If you’ve booked a free psychic reading to figure out your love life or professional career, then you will have questions and intentions. However, always keep in mind that you should never micromanage the psychic reader or their session, or refuse to accept or shut down anything that doesn’t fit your opinions and beliefs.

    Psychics receive messages or impressions all the time, and they go beyond the specific issue that you walked in with. Sometimes, these are the very unexpected messages that can prove to be more relevant or urgent than the task at hand. So if you try to dictate the reading into one topic, you will definitely miss out on important guidance that your intuition, a spiritual source, or the reader is trying to deliver.

    ⇒ Ask a free psychic question and receive support from real, compassionate advisors!

    5. Don’t Do a Group Reading If You Want It to Be All About You

    Group readings are the perfect way to destroy your personal reading. 

    Yes, bringing a friend along for moral support is good, but not during a psychic reading. It is something you must do alone. Group readings shift the focus away from you, because someone else’s energy or spirit connection can be stronger in the moment or interfere with yours. Psychics can’t control, most of the time, which messages come through the loudest. Which is why your friend might get all the answers, while yours go unnoticed.

    If your goal is to get personal clarity or closure with a psychic reader, book a solo reading. In this way, the psychic will concentrate fully on your energy and concerns rather than someone else’s. 

    ⇒  Get the answers you seek through free psychic chat and real insights!

    6. Don’t Be Rude, Late, or Distracted

    All of these things are against professionalism. Basic manners apply in the psychic world too, because a reading is a professional service, even if it’s free. It should be approached with the same level of respect that you’d give to any other personal appointment. Which is why;

    • Show up on time 
    • Give a heads-up if you’re running late
    • Silence your phone
    • Only record with permission 
    • Don’t argue about prices, even if you are just there for a free intro session
    • Treat the psychic with respect.

    When you show respect and gratitude, you will receive it too, as well as have a mutually positive experience. 

    ⇒ Find the best free psychics here and choose from top-rated advisors!

    7. Don’t Expect Exact Timelines or Life-Altering Predictions

    One major misconception about psychic readings is that they will change your life dramatically, or work like a crystal-clear map. In reality, readings are fluid, symbolic, and most often, open to interpretation. 

    The predictions that psychics will make might also be metaphorical. Other predications may play out over months or even years. All this is to tell you that psychic insights are not guaranteed; they’re more like nudges.

    This is why you should not demand guaranteed answers from psychics. They cannot tell you the exact date you will get married or win the lottery. That’s not how it works. Instead, stay open to the signs that emerge and reflect throughout your journey.

    8. Don’t Get Hung Up on One Thing You Don’t Like

    If the psychic says something that you don’t like or feel uncomfortable with, it’s fine to question it. However, what you must not do is dismiss the entire session based on one detail you hung up on and didn’t like. Sometimes, the messages that these psychic readers will tell you will take time to make sense. And in some cases, uncomfortable truths will also be revealed, because they are exactly what you need to hear.

    A good psychic will never hide things from you, but they also won’t send you into misery and disappointment. If you find yourself resisting one specific point, think about it, take a deep breath, and reflect later. 

    ⇒ Ask a psychic question for free and receive guidance instantly!

    9. Don’t Be Scared Or Nervous 

    The key to getting maximum clarity with psychics is to ask with confidence. 

    Psychics will perform readings that reflect innate human need, as they seek clarity without commitment, especially when it comes to deeply personal matters. 

    So, whether you’re asking about love, finances, health, or career, craft your question well, and you will see how it shapes the clarity and accuracy of the answer you receive.

    Be specific but open, and instead of asking “Will I be happy?” try asking, “What should I focus on to achieve happiness?” Similarly, avoid Yes/No questions, because open-ended questions will lead to even more comprehensive insights.

    Many psychics offer a free psychic reading by date of birth and time, which provides deeper astrological accuracy, but whatever you have in mind, have realistic expectations, because psychics only guide, and not dictate, your destiny.

    ⇒ Start a real-time free psychic live chat and gain valuable perspective!

    10. How to Choose the Right Psychic for You

    Finding the right psychic reader is very easy, thanks to resourceful content present on the psychic experts, such as;

    • Star Ratings and Reviews: You must look for 4.5+ stars and feedback.
    • Specialty Tags: For example, love psychic, medium, or tarot expert. Their specialty must match your needs.
    • Intro Videos: A short video can help you “meet” your psychic before booking.
    • Trust Your Gut: if a psychic’s tone or wording doesn’t match your vibe, move on.
    • Use the Free Minutes Wisely: Your trial time is precious. Don’t waste it with small talk. Move straight to your main question.

    11. How to Spot a Fake Psychic

    Unfortunately, not everyone in the psychic world is genuinely ethical. Many psychic readers aren’t even psychics – they take advantage of vulnerable people by making fake promises or forcing them to buy expensive add-ons (like curse removals). 

    Here are some red flags present in all fake psychics:

    • They guarantee 100% accuracy
    • They ask leading/fishing questions
    • They claim you’re cursed and ask for money to remove it
    • They pressure you into buying more sessions

    If you spot such a psychic, don’t believe a word they say. Instead, stick to reputable platforms, such as the psychic experts, with verified reviews and satisfied users.

    ⇒  Get started with a free psychic reading and explore your destiny today!

    Final Thoughts

    A free psychic reading can help you with matters of this world or the next, whether it is love life, career choices, or grief resolution. Platforms like the psychic experts allow users to safely explore spiritual wisdom without any risks, as there are trusted psychics, verified reviews, and no pressure to pay until you’re 100% satisfied.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Are free psychic readings really free?

    Yes, many top-rated platforms, such as the-psychic-experts.com, may offer a few minutes free for your online psychic readings on chat or call. These minutes are enough to help you decide if the psychic is right for you.

    What is the best way to ask a psychic a question?

    Ask open-ended questions and be receptive to their guidance on love, career, and personal growth. The more detailed your question is, the better the reader will provide an answer.

    Can I get a free psychic reading by date of birth and time?

    Of course! Many psychic readers use date of birth and time as well as astrology as a tool to offer you insights about your life. Always provide correct birth information for accurate answers.

    Are free psychic readings online really accurate?

    Yes, they can be. The accuracy depends on the psychic’s skill and your openness. Free minutes are a great way to test an advisor’s style and abilities. The accuracy of free online psychic readings depends on the psychic’s ability and your willingness to cooperate and coordinate with them. Top-rated platforms like the-psychic-experts.com tend to feature the most genuine and insightful psychic readers for accurate readings.

    How long do free psychic chat sessions usually last?

    Most platforms offer between 3 and 10 free minutes. This is often enough to ask one or two questions and get a feel for the reader.

    Do I need a credit card for a free psychic chat?

    Some platforms do not require a credit card for the free portion, while others may request it for verification. Always read the terms before signing up.

    Can I ask anything during a free psychic reading online?

    Yes. You can ask about love, career, family, health, or spiritual paths. Just be mindful that time is limited during the free session.

    Is free psychic chat safe and confidential?

    Reputable platforms use secure technology and keep chats private. Be sure to choose a trusted site with good reviews and a clear privacy policy.

    Is a free psychic reading better via phone or chat?

    Honestly, it depends on your preference. If you want a psychic reading via chat, it will offer discretion, but on the other hand, phone readings offer verbal clarity and a better energy connection.

    Media Contact

    Company: The Psychic Experts

    Contact Person: Anthony C. Bedoya

    Email: support@the-psychic-experts.com

    Address: 1 Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101, USA

    URL: https://the-psychic-experts.com/

    Phone: +1 414-203-2598

    Content Accuracy Disclaimer
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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Orbit International’s Simulator Product Solutions LLC Subsidiary Reports April Bookings in Excess of $1,125,000

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HAUPPAUGE, N.Y., May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Orbit International Corp. (OTC PINK:ORBT), an electronics manufacturer and software solution provider, today announced that its Simulator Product Solutions LLC (“SPS”) subsidiary received orders during the month of April of 2025 totaling in excess of $1,125,000. Deliveries for these awards have already commenced and will continue through the third quarter of 2025.

    Mitchell Binder, President and CEO of Orbit International commented, “We are pleased to report SPS bookings in excess of $1,125,000 for the month of April of 2025, which comes on the heels of $4,700,000 in bookings for our Orbit Electronics Group (“OEG”) that we announced for the first quarter. In addition to the firm monthly bookings, SPS continues to bid on several new opportunities which we hope will continue the momentum of bookings for the second quarter. We also believe that our position in the marketplace will add to additional business opportunities in the second half of 2025. However, the timing of receipt of military awards is always an uncertainty.”

    Binder added, “We continue to be very confident in the progress of our Orbit Power Group (“OPG”). We recorded a very firm booking year in 2024, principally due to record bookings for power supplies utilizing our VPX technology. We continue to be confident that in 2025, we will continue to both receive follow-on business for our VPX power supplies and deliver new designs that will expand our reach in the marketplace for this technology. We are monitoring the recent tariff announcements and are evaluating their impact on the cost of our product and in particular our VPX power supplies.”

    Orbit International Corp., through its Electronics Group, is involved in the development and manufacture of custom electronic device and subsystem solutions for military, industrial and commercial applications through its production facilities in Hauppauge, NY and Carson, CA. Orbit’s Power Group, also located in Hauppauge, NY, designs and manufactures a wide array of power products including AC power supplies, frequency converters, inverters, VME/VPX power supplies as well as various COTS power sources.

    Certain matters discussed in this news release and oral statements made from time to time by representatives of the Company including, statements regarding our expectations of Orbit’s operating plans, deliveries under contracts and strategies generally; statements regarding our expectations of the performance of our business; expectations regarding costs and revenues, future operating results, additional orders, future business opportunities and continued growth, may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and the Federal securities laws. Although Orbit believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, it can give no assurance that its expectations will be achieved.

    Forward-looking information is subject to certain risks, trends and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Many of these factors are beyond Orbit International’s ability to control or predict. Important factors that may cause actual results to differ materially and that could impact Orbit International and the statements contained in this news release can be found in Orbit’s reports posted with the OTC Disclosure and News service. For forward-looking statements in this news release, Orbit claims the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Orbit assumes no obligation to update or supplement any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    CONTACT                        
    David Goldman
    Chief Financial Officer
    631-435-8300

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, March 2025

    Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis

    The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis announced today that the goods and services deficit was $140.5 billion in March, up $17.3 billion from $123.2 billion in February, revised.

    U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services Deficit
    Deficit: $140.5 Billion +14.0%°
    Exports: $278.5 Billion +0.2%°
    Imports: $419.0 Billion +4.4%°

    Next release: Thursday, June 5, 2025

    (°) Statistical significance is not applicable or not measurable. Data adjusted for seasonality but not price changes

    Source: U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis; U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, May 6, 2025

    Exports, Imports, and Balance (exhibit 1)

    March exports were $278.5 billion, $0.5 billion more than February exports. March imports were $419.0 billion, $17.8 billion more than February imports.

    The March increase in the goods and services deficit reflected an increase in the goods deficit of $16.5 billion to $163.5 billion and a decrease in the services surplus of $0.8 billion to $23.0 billion.

    Year-to-date, the goods and services deficit increased $189.6 billion, or 92.6 percent, from the same period in 2024. Exports increased $41.1 billion or 5.2 percent. Imports increased $230.7 billion or 23.3 percent.

    Three-Month Moving Averages (exhibit 2)

    The average goods and services deficit increased $14.1 billion to $131.4 billion for the three months ending in March.

    • Average exports increased $4.0 billion to $275.7 billion in March.
    • Average imports increased $18.1 billion to $407.1 billion in March.

    Year-over-year, the average goods and services deficit increased $63.2 billion from the three months ending in March 2024.

    • Average exports increased $13.7 billion from March 2024.
    • Average imports increased $76.9 billion from March 2024.

    Exports (exhibits 3, 6, and 7)

    Exports of goods increased $1.3 billion to $183.2 billion in March.

      Exports of goods on a Census basis increased $2.5 billion.

    • Industrial supplies and materials increased $2.2 billion.
      • Natural gas increased $0.8 billion.
      • Nonmonetary gold increased $0.7 billion.
    • Automotive vehicles, parts, and engines increased $1.2 billion.
      • Passenger cars increased $0.9 billion.
    • Capital goods decreased $1.5 billion.
      • Civilian aircraft decreased $1.8 billion.
      • Computer accessories increased $0.7 billion.

      Net balance of payments adjustments decreased $1.2 billion.

    Exports of services decreased $0.9 billion to $95.2 billion in March.

    • Travel decreased $1.3 billion.
    • Transport increased $0.3 billion.
    • Financial services increased $0.2 billion.

    Imports (exhibits 4, 6, and 8)

    Imports of goods increased $17.8 billion to $346.8 billion in March.

      Imports of goods on a Census basis increased $17.8 billion.

    • Consumer goods increased $22.5 billion.
      • Pharmaceutical preparations increased $20.9 billion.
    • Capital goods increased $3.7 billion.
      • Computer accessories increased $2.0 billion.
    • Automotive vehicles, parts, and engines increased $2.6 billion.
      • Passenger cars increased $2.1 billion.
    • Industrial supplies and materials decreased $10.7 billion.
      • Finished metal shapes decreased $10.3 billion.
      • Nonmonetary gold decreased $1.8 billion.
      • Crude oil decreased $1.2 billion.

      Net balance of payments adjustments decreased less than $0.1 billion.

    Imports of services decreased $0.1 billion to $72.2 billion in March.

    • Travel decreased $0.4 billion.
    • Transport increased $0.2 billion.

    Real Goods in 2017 Dollars – Census Basis (exhibit 11)

    The real goods deficit increased $14.0 billion, or 10.2 percent, to $150.9 billion in March, compared to a 10.3 percent increase in the nominal deficit.

    • Real exports of goods increased $2.4 billion, or 1.6 percent, to $149.7 billion, compared to a 1.4 percent increase in nominal exports.
    • Real imports of goods increased $16.4 billion, or 5.8 percent, to $300.6 billion, compared to a 5.5 percent increase in nominal imports.

    Revisions

    Revisions to February exports

    • Exports of goods were revised down less than $0.1 billion.
    • Exports of services were revised down $0.4 billion.

    Revisions to February imports

    • Imports of goods were revised up less than $0.1 billion.
    • Imports of services were revised up $0.1 billion.

    Goods by Selected Countries and Areas: Monthly – Census Basis (exhibit 19)

    The March figures show surpluses, in billions of dollars, with Netherlands ($4.5), South and Central America ($3.2), Hong Kong ($1.9), United Kingdom ($1.2), Singapore ($0.5), Brazil ($0.5), and Saudi Arabia ($0.2). Deficits were recorded, in billions of dollars, with European Union ($48.3), Ireland ($29.3), China ($24.8), Mexico ($16.8), Switzerland ($14.7), Vietnam ($14.1), Taiwan ($8.7), India ($7.7), Germany ($7.5), South Korea ($6.8), Japan ($5.8), Canada ($4.9), Italy ($4.4), France ($3.9), Malaysia ($3.2), Australia ($1.0), Israel ($1.0), and Belgium ($0.1).

    • The deficit with Ireland increased $15.3 billion to $29.3 billion in March. Exports increased $0.1 billion to $1.4 billion and imports increased $15.5 billion to $30.7 billion.
    • The deficit with France increased $2.4 billion to $3.9 billion in March. Exports increased $0.1 billion to $4.0 billion and imports increased $2.6 billion to $7.9 billion.
    • The deficit with Switzerland decreased $4.1 billion to $14.7 billion in March. Exports increased $1.1 billion to $3.5 billion and imports decreased $3.0 billion to $18.3 billion.

    All statistics referenced are seasonally adjusted; statistics are on a balance of payments basis unless otherwise specified. Additional statistics, including not seasonally adjusted statistics and details for goods on a Census basis, are available in exhibits 1-20b of this release. For information on data sources, definitions, and revision procedures, see the explanatory notes in this release. The full release can be found at www.census.gov/foreign-trade/Press-Release/current_press_release/index.html or www.bea.gov/data/intl-trade-investment/international-trade-goods-and-services. The full schedule is available in the Census Bureau’s Economic Briefing Room at www.census.gov/economic-indicators/ or on BEA’s website at www.bea.gov/news/schedule.

    Next release: June 5, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. EDT
    U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, April 2025

    Notice

    Country Name Changes

    With this release of the “U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services” report, references to “Congo (Brazzaville)” and “Congo (Kinshasa)” are replaced with “Congo” and “Democratic Republic of the Congo,” respectively, to reflect the countries’ recent name changes. These changes also align with the names recognized by the U.S. Department of State and the International Organization for Standardization.

    Impact of Canada Border Services Agency’s (CBSA) Release of CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM)

    The CBSA introduced a new accounting system (CARM) on October 21, 2024. As a result, importers in Canada have experienced delays in filing shipment information. These delays affected the compilation of statistics on U.S. exports of goods to Canada for September 2024 through February 2025, which are derived from data compiled by Canada through the United States – Canada Data Exchange. A dollar estimate of the filing backlog is included in estimates for late receipts and, following the U.S. Census Bureau’s customary practice for late receipt estimates, is included in the export end-use category “Other goods” as well as in exports to Canada. This estimate will be replaced with the actual transactions reported by the Harmonized System classification in June 2025 with the release of “U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, Annual Revision.” Until then, please refer to the supplemental spreadsheet “CARM Exports to Canada Corrections,” which provides a breakdown of the late receipts by 1-digit end-use category for statistics through 2024. This spreadsheet will be updated as late export transactions are received to reflect reassignments from the initial “Other goods” category to the appropriate 1-digit end-use category. Any 2025 impacts will be revised in June 2026.

    If you have questions or need additional information, please contact the Census Bureau, Economic Indicators Division, International Trade Macro Analysis Branch, on 800-549-0595, option 4, or at eid.international.trade.data@census.gov.

    Upcoming Updates to Goods and Services

    With the releases of the “U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services” report (FT-900) and the FT-900 Annual Revision on June 5, 2025, statistics on trade in goods, on both a Census basis and a balance of payments (BOP) basis, will be revised beginning with 2020 and statistics on trade in services will be revised beginning with 2018. The revised statistics for goods on a BOP basis and for services will also be included in the “U.S. International Transactions, 1st Quarter 2025 and Annual Update” report and in the international transactions interactive database, both to be released by BEA on June 24, 2025.

    Revised statistics on trade in goods will reflect:

    • Corrections and adjustments to previously published not seasonally adjusted statistics for goods on a Census basis.
    • End-use reclassifications of several commodities.
    • Recalculated seasonal and trading-day adjustments.
    • Newly available and revised source data on BOP adjustments, which are adjustments that BEA applies to goods on a Census basis to convert them to a BOP basis. See the “Goods (balance of payments basis)” section in the explanatory notes for more information.

    Revised statistics on trade in services will reflect:

    • Newly available and revised source data, primarily from BEA surveys of international services.
    • Corrections and adjustments to previously published not seasonally adjusted statistics.
    • Recalculated seasonal adjustments.
    • Revised temporal distributions of quarterly source data to monthly statistics. See the “Services” section in the explanatory notes for more information.

    For more information, see “Preview of the 2025 Annual Update of the International Economic Accounts” in the Survey of Current Business.

    If you have questions or need additional information, please contact the Census Bureau, Economic Indicators Division, International Trade Macro Analysis Branch, on (800) 549-0595, option 4, or at eid.international.trade.data@census.gov or BEA, Balance of Payments Division, at InternationalAccounts@bea.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump likes to know where his suits come from. His tariffs could now upend the world’s fashion supply chains

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Arooj Rashid, Senior Lecturer in Marketing, Nottingham Trent University

    Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock

    US president Donald Trump has a particular look. Sharp navy suits, overly long ties and crisp white shirts, always structured to command attention. It’s a power uniform rooted in a very traditional idea of masculine elegance. Trump wants it to look expensive, meticulously crafted, consistent, and entirely his own.

    Behind the populist slogans and “Buy American” rhetoric, this president has long embraced symbols of global luxury. While he’s worn American tailoring from Brooklyn’s Martin Greenfield – a craftsman who has dressed everyone from Barack Obama to Colin Powell – he has also been a longstanding customer of Brioni, an exclusive Italian brand of tailored clothing.

    So, while campaigning for American-made goods Trump has for years enjoyed the prestige of the “Made in Italy” tag, and the luxurious connotations it brings to menswear.

    But his trade policies have done the opposite for the global fashion industry. By threatening massive trade tariffs on countries like China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, India and Pakistan, he has potentially created chaos for both the industry and consumers.

    Traditionally, what’s known as “country of origin” has been represented by the “made in” label, a key branding tool that can shape consumer perceptions of product quality and other attributes. However, as globalisation has led to the outsourcing of design, materials and production, the definition has become increasingly complex.

    “Designed in” and “country of brand origin” have come to define prestigious product qualities, while country image is used to reflect perceptions of a nation and its products. For example, “designed in Italy” often evokes craftsmanship and luxury in fashion goods. Similarly, Germany has a historical reputation for excellence in producing cars. And “Japanese brand origin” is associated with cutting-edge technology and reliability, particularly in electronics and vehicles.

    Two decades ago, as production costs in the US and Europe mounted, clothing production moved to Asia. While China has remained an important supplier, trade tensions saw production move to countries including Vietnam, India and Bangladesh in the early mid-2010s. But with the threat of new tariffs on these countries, brands are scrambling again.

    This time they have far fewer alternatives. And for companies that rely on the storytelling behind where a garment is made, this isn’t just a supply chain headache. It’s an identity crisis.

    ‘Made in Italy’ – like Trump’s Brioni suits – conveys more than just the country of manufacture.
    Northfoto/Shutterstock

    In fashion, a garment’s origin is not merely a logistical detail – it’s part of its identity. Labels like “made in Italy”, “made in India” or “made in Bangladesh” carry different connotations. These could be luxury and craftsmanship – embroidery skills, for example – or affordability at scale.

    Over time, brands have cultivated these country associations as part of their marketing strategies, shaping consumer perception and trust. The result is a strategic decision for fashion companies, which must now consider cost and efficiency and how changing suppliers might affect their brand’s perceived values and identity.

    For example, brands like H&M and Levi Strauss & Co. have promoted their ethical sourcing in India or partnerships in Pakistan due to their expertise. But now they risk being taxed extensively. So what is the solution?

    The impact on consumers

    The growing risk of new trade rules and tariffs is making it harder for countries that supply fashion goods to stay competitive.

    First, brands must re-assess globalisation of the fashion industry and develop alternative supply chains. While a quick shift may be possible for simpler fashion products, relocating production for more complex or premium goods is usually a long-term investment. As a result, brands will be investigating country images that are perceived to be trusted and trustworthy as trading partners.

    But one unexpected outcome of these policies may be the return of European production and the emergence of “safe” sourcing locations in countries less exposed to trading restrictions. This could be Portugal and Romania for mid-market clothing, and Italy for high-end fashion goods. These would be more predictable and offer a globally recognised brand image.

    Heritage clothing brand Barbour still manufactures some of its lines in the UK.
    Robert Way/Shutterstock

    For some companies, shifting production to Italy will allow them to maintain product prestige while avoiding some of the eye-watering tariffs threatened for some Asian countries. Meanwhile others may look to move back to the UK because of its association with younger, niche markets.

    This won’t necessarily make clothing cheaper for consumers. It does though offer a level of reassurance, especially for higher-end or mid-market labels looking to preserve their image amid instability.

    Trump’s own affinity for Brioni reflects this implicit value. Though his public rhetoric prioritised American manufacturing, his choice of a luxury Italian tailor speaks to a broader truth: country image matters. And in fashion, it can be everything.

    The consequences of these trade policies are now visible across the fashion ecosystem. For example, American brands like Everlane and Pact are built around affordability and transparency. They rely on production in south or south-east Asia, and now face the challenge of rising costs.

    Larger companies will be rethinking pricing strategies, renegotiating contracts or halting expansion in regions hardest hit by tariffs.

    For consumers, this could mean higher prices and reduced variety. The label inside a garment now tells a more complex story – not only of where it was made but also of the political and economic forces shaping global trade.

    Even if these tariffs are eventually reduced or reversed, the disruption they have caused has already left a mark. They have redefined the meaning and importance of country-of-origin labels, exposed the fragility of global supply chains, and placed new pressure on brands to balance ethics, economics and image in a volatile environment. In fashion, where identity is crafted through fabric and narrative, the story behind the label has never mattered more.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Trump likes to know where his suits come from. His tariffs could now upend the world’s fashion supply chains – https://theconversation.com/trump-likes-to-know-where-his-suits-come-from-his-tariffs-could-now-upend-the-worlds-fashion-supply-chains-255337

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –