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Category: Trade

  • MIL-OSI USA: DelBene, Ways & Means Democrats Introduce Bill to End Trump’s Trade War Chaos

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (1st District of Washington)

    Today, Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Member Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Ranking Member Richard Neal (MA-01), Trade Subcommittee Ranking Member Linda Sánchez (CA-38), along with all Ways and Means Committee Democrats introduced the Stopping a Rogue President on Trade Act, a bill to end the constant chaos created by President Trump’s trade wars and reclaim Congress’ authority over tariffs.

    “Trade policy should support American families, workers, and small businesses and not be wielded as a political weapon. This legislation once again reasserts that the president does not have the power to unilaterally impose sweeping tariffs, and tightens existing loopholes to ensure no president can violate our constitution moving forward,” said DelBene. “For communities in Washington, where trade-dependent businesses drive our local economy, this bill brings much-needed stability and ensures our trade policy reflects long-term economic interests, not political whims.” 

    “President Trump’s reckless abuse of tariffs has sparked nothing but chaos,” said Sánchez. “American families have been anxiously bracing for rising costs and small businesses are worried they won’t survive the economic strain – all while the president flip-flops on tariffs at a whim, doing backroom deals and keeping negotiations out of the public eye. It’s time to end this madness. Congress must step in and take the trade keys away from our rogue president and protect the American people.”

    “Over the years, Congress has entrusted more and more authority over trade to the Executive Branch, and recent events have made it clear we must reclaim that authority,” said Neal. “This president is willing to call anything an emergency to justify his every chaotic whim. The American people deserve better—they deserve stability and forethought. That’s why I’m proud to support Trade Subcommittee Ranking Member Sánchez’s legislation that will deliver just that.”

    The Stopping a Rogue President on Trade Act would:

    • Turn off the global tariffs imposed on April 2: The bill would permanently turn off the new baseline tariffs of 10 percent for all countries as well as the massive increases in tariffs for 60 trading partners, such as Europe, Israel, Japan, South Korea and Kenya. This would return most rates to the levels they were before the president’s tariff spree.
    • Turn off the tariffs imposed by executive order for Mexico and Canada: The president should not be able to use congressional trade authorities to extort our closest allies. If there are trade issues with those two countries, then there is a process in the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement that President Trump negotiated, and Congress authorized.
    • Require congressional approval for all new tariffs: The Constitution gives Congress the authority over trade. Getting a vote on tariff actions should not be held hostage to political whim; votes would be treated as privileged measures that ensures that the American people get to have their say. Apolitical tariff actions – like trade remedies, safeguards and trade agreement dispute settlement – are already insulated from partisan abuse and would not require a congressional vote under the bill.

    The bill is cosponsored by Representatives Linda Sánchez (CA-38), Richard Neal (MA-01), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Mike Thompson (CA-04), John Larson (CT-01), Danny Davis (IL-07), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Judy Chu (CA-28), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Don Beyer (VA-08), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Brad Schneider (IL-10), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Stacey Plaskett (VI-at Large), Tom Suozzi (NY-03) and Adam Gray (CA-13).

    A copy of the bill text can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: US tariffs move could see three per cent fall in global trade, says top UN economist

    Source: United Nations 2

    Economic Development

    Global trade could shrink by three per cent as a result of the United States’ new tariff measures which in the longer term could reshape and boost as-yet untapped regional commercial links, a top UN economist confirmed on Friday.

    “There will be shifting, I think, in supply chains, there will be a reassessment of global alliances. There will be geopolitical shifts and economic as well,” said Pamela Coke-Hamilton, head of the International Trade Centre (ITC).

    Speaking in Geneva after Wednesday’s announcement by the White House of a 90-day pause on “reciprocal tariffs” for most countries with the exception of China, Mrs. Coke-Hamilton noted that exports from Mexico had already been “highly impacted” by earlier seismic changes to US trade policy.

    “Countries like Mexico, China and Thailand, but also countries in southern Africa are among the most affected, alongside the US itself,” she said.

    While the 90-day pause on the so-called reciprocal tariffs applies to imports from most countries and brings down rates to a still hefty 10 per cent, tariffs on imports from China currently stand at 145 per cent.

    China, meanwhile, has raised tariffs against US exports – in effect import taxes on goods – to 125 per cent.

    Already, Mexico’s products for export have shifted away from markets such as the US, China, Europe and other Latin American countries to make “modest gains” instead in Canada, Brazil “and to a lesser extent, India”, the ITC chief insisted.

    Other countries have followed suit, including Vietnam, whose exports “are redirecting away from the US, Mexico and China”, while “increasing substantially” towards the EU, Republic of Korea and others, said Mrs. Coke-Hamilton, whose UN specialised agency offers assistance to developing countries.

    The problem for emerging economies is that they are less well equipped to “pivot” when faced with “instabilities”, the ITC chief explained, since they often lack the manufacturing diversity and ability to add value to raw commodities of more industrialized nations.

    Especially vulnerable trading partners of the US include Lesotho, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Madagascar and Myanmar that are “the most exposed”, she continued.

    Confirming that the World Trade Organization (WTO) had estimated that commerce between China and the US could drop by up to 80 per cent if the highly unusual situation continues, the ITC Executive Secretary pointed out that they constituted only “three per cent to four per cent of world trade…[so] there is 96 per cent out there that is still trading and that will trade”.

    Nonetheless, the impact of the “indeterminate extension of 90 days on and on” has not been good for global commerce and “does not necessarily lend itself to stability”, Mrs. Coke-Hamilton continued.

    “Irrespective of whether there is an extension, on and on, the fact that there is no stability, there is no predictability will affect trade and firms and decisions that are being made in real time.”

    She added: “This would not be the first time that there have been tremors in the world economic system. We have seen it over the last 50 years in different dispensations. This one is probably a little more harsh, a little more tremulous.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: WithSecure Corporation: SHARE REPURCHASE 11.4.2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WithSecure Corporation, STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE, 11 April 2025 at 6.30 PM (EET)
         
         
    WithSecure Corporation: SHARE REPURCHASE 11.4.2025
         
    In the Helsinki Stock Exchange    
         
    Trade date           11.4.2025  
    Bourse trade         Buy  
    Share                  WITH  
    Amount             15 000 Shares
    Average price/ share    0,8856 EUR
    Total cost            13 284,00 EUR
         
         
    WithSecure Corporation now holds a total of 431 890 shares
    including the shares repurchased on 11.4.2025  
         
    The share buybacks are executed in compliance with Regulation 
    No. 596/2014 of the European Parliament and Council (MAR) Article 5
    and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052.
         
         
    On behalf of Withsecure Corporation  
         
    Nordea Bank Oyj    
         
    Janne Sarvikivi           Sami Huttunen  
         
         
    Contact information:    
    Laura Viita    
    Vice President Controlling, Investor relations and Sustainability
    WithSecure Corporation    
    Tel. +358 50 4871044    
    Investor-relations@withsecure.com    

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: IDEX Biometrics ASA: Key information relating to share consolidation and change of ISIN

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Reference is made to the Extraordinary General Meeting in IDEX Biometrics ASA (“IDEX” or the “Company”) on 11 April 2025, where all proposed resolutions were approved.

    Key information relating to the approved share consolidation: 

    Date on which the terms and conditions of the share consolidation was made public: 11 April 2025;

    Share consolidation ratio: 100 old shares give 1 new share;

    Last day including right: 10 June 2025;

    Ex-date: 11 June 2025;

    Record date: 12 June 2025; and

    Date of approval: 11 April 2025

    In connection with the share consolidation, the Company’s shares will be transferred to a new ISIN. Please find below the following key information for the change of ISIN:

    Issuer: IDEX Biometrics ASA

    Old ISIN: NO0013107490

    New ISIN: NO0013536078

    Date of ISIN change: 11 June 2025.

    For further information contact:

    Marianne Bøe, Head of Investor Relations, Tel: +47 91800186

    Kristian Flaten, CFO, Tel: +47 95092322

    E-mail: ir@idexbiometrics.com

    About IDEX Biometrics:

    IDEX Biometrics ASA (OSE: IDEX) is a global technology leader in fingerprint biometrics, offering authentication solutions across payments, access control, and digital identity. Our solutions bring convenience, security, peace of mind and seamless user experiences to the world. Built on patented and proprietary sensor technologies, integrated circuit designs, and software, our biometric solutions target card-based applications for payments and digital authentication. As an industry-enabler we partner with leading card manufacturers and technology companies to bring our solutions to market.

    For more information, visit www.idexbiometrics.com

    About this notice:

    This notice was published by Kristian Flaten, CFO in IDEX Biometrics ASA, on 11 April 2025 at 16:50 CET on behalf of IDEX Biometrics ASA.  This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to the Norwegian Securities Trading Act section 5-12 and Euronext Oslo Børs rule book.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: White House plans for Alaskan oil and gas face some hurdles – including from Trump and the petroleum industry

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Scott L. Montgomery, Lecturer in International Studies, University of Washington

    A pumping station and oil pipeline north of Fairbanks, Alaska, are part of the existing fossil fuel industry in the state. AP Photo/Al Grillo

    The second Trump administration has launched the next stage in the half-century-long battle between commerce and conservation over Alaskan oil and gas development. But its moves are delivering a mixed message to the petroleum industry.

    The administration has opened – or reopened – large swaths of government land in Alaska to oil and gas drilling, though only some of those opportunities have drawn much commercial interest in recent years. And an 800-mile pipeline across Alaska that the administration says it supports is not yet funded, and other administration policies risk turning off prospective partners.

    President Donald Trump says he wants to grow oil and gas production and advance the goal of what he calls U.S. “energy dominance.” The White House says that term means both reducing the amount of energy imported from other countries and increasing the amount of energy exported from the U.S., especially to allies.

    The U.S. is already the world’s largest producer and exporter of natural gas as well as the largest producer of crude oil. And the nation’s oil industry boomed under the Biden administration. However, the U.S. does import an average of over 6 million barrels per day of crude oil, most of it from Canada.

    Trump’s efforts seek to boost U.S. production to still greater heights by expanding access to areas for drilling and building related infrastructure. But as a former petroleum geoscientist and industry observer, I would suggest his various actions, taken as a whole, may have more limited effects than he seems to hope.

    Returned to leasing

    In one of his first executive orders after retaking office on Jan. 20, 2025, Trump declared that the U.S. would develop Alaska’s petroleum resources “to the fullest extent possible.”

    The Biden administration had banned oil leasing in three areas of Alaska. One was all but 400,000 acres in the coastal plain portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Another was a 13-million-acre swath of the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska, a massive parcel of federal land west of the refuge. The third area was 44 million acres of the offshore coastal portion of the northern Bering Sea, based on concerns for tribal rights and the migration routes of marine mammals.

    Trump moved quickly to reverse all these bans, describing them as an “assault on Alaska’s sovereignty and its ability to responsibly develop (its) resources for the benefit of the Nation.” And Trump went farther, expanding the available land by an additional 6 million acres in the petroleum reserve and another 1.1 million acres of the wildlife refuge.

    All those areas are home to many different types of wildlife, as well as Indigenous groups.

    Caribou migrate onto the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in northeast Alaska.
    U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service via AP

    The view of industry

    For the petroleum industry, I expect these actions are both welcome and irrelevant. Reopening the northeastern portion of the petroleum reserve creates a real opportunity: Exploration has found a significant amount of oil and gas in that area, and indications are that there may be more yet to discover.

    But prospects on the land in the wildlife refuge and the shallow waters of the Bering Sea are not likely of much interest to drilling companies unless oil prices rise significantly from their levels in early 2025. There is no established production in either area at present. And, though the refuge has oil and gas potential, there are no roads or pipelines, and Arctic drilling is especially expensive.

    In fact, the last two attempts by the government to lease oil development rights in the wildlife refuge drew very little interest. In 2020, the first Trump administration teamed with Republicans in Congress to overcome long-standing legal and political opposition to leasing in the refuge. But the 2021 lease sale was a bust, with none of the top oil producers in the state participating.

    A second round of bidding, in January 2025, received no interest at all from oil companies.

    The Trans-Alaska Pipeline runs 800 miles from the North Slope to the port of Valdez, Alaska.
    Mario Tama/Getty Images

    Pipe dreams that could come true

    A strong gain for the petroleum industry would be a major new pipeline to carry natural gas more than 800 miles south from the Prudhoe Bay area on the Arctic coast to a port near Anchorage on south-central Alaska’s Cook Inlet.

    The idea has its own decades-long history, and has been both pushed forward and set back over the years by changing economics, government plans, and tribal interest and opposition.

    The main challenge is that there is no way to transport natural gas off the North Slope. Since drilling began in the late 1970s, some has been used locally for heating and running equipment, with the vast majority being reinjected into oil reservoir rock to help maintain oil production.

    Rising demand and elevated prices in Asia, however, suggest the project could be profitable, despite the current cost estimate of US$44 billion. Project plans indicate most of it would go to build a liquefied natural gas export terminal near Anchorage, with the rest spent to construct an 807-mile pipeline paralleling the existing Trans-Alaska Pipeline, and a plant at Prudhoe Bay that would capture carbon from the atmosphere, compress it and inject it into oil-producing reservoirs to boost production.

    The pipeline is designed to carry 3.3 billion cubic feet of natural gas each day, which would make it one of the largest pipelines in North America. The export terminal, to be built near the town of Nikiski on Cook Inlet, would have a capacity of roughly 1 trillion cubic feet per year, enough to heat about 15 million homes for a year.

    The pipeline could take as little as two to three years to build, but the terminal and carbon-capture plant would take longer – five years or so. The exports from Alaska could go to other ports in the U.S., but they could also fetch higher prices in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and possibly China.

    An artist’s rendering of what a natural gas export terminal would look like on Cook Inlet, near Nikiski, Alaska.
    Alaska Gasline Development Corporation

    A wrench in the works

    Most of the permits needed for the pipeline-and-export-terminal project have been secured by the Alaska Gasline Development Corporation, a company created by the state of Alaska to build the project.

    However, no company or foreign government has yet agreed to foot the bill, and despite the support of the Trump White House, there’s no indication the federal government will do so either.

    The Trump administration has also created a new barrier to the project. Its sweeping tariffs and the resulting trade war crashed prices in the global oil and gas market in early April 2025.

    In addition, uncertainty about the permanence of tariffs or other restrictions on international trade are now widespread and directly affect the oil industry. Lower gas and oil prices and less stability make any project less attractive.

    It’s true that Trump exempted oil and gas from his most recent tariffs. But that matters less than the broader effect the trade war is already having, with analysts projecting it is driving the global economy toward recession. Less economic activity means less demand for oil and gas, and therefore less incentive for companies to drill new wells and build new pipelines.

    To top everything off, the White House slapped heavy tariffs on Japan, South Korea and Taiwan, the very countries that might be inclined to help fund the pipeline project. Even before the trade war, they were hesitant about supporting it. The potential suspension, or reinstatement, or adjustment of tariffs is not likely to help them view the situation as more stable.

    Those who favor oil and gas development in Alaska may be wondering whether the president is truly on their side. It remains to be seen whether their hopes might end up a casualty of White House economic policy.

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

    – ref. White House plans for Alaskan oil and gas face some hurdles – including from Trump and the petroleum industry – https://theconversation.com/white-house-plans-for-alaskan-oil-and-gas-face-some-hurdles-including-from-trump-and-the-petroleum-industry-254040

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: MEXC Among Top 3 CEXs with $1.79B Monthly Inflows, Driven by Innovative Strategies

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, April 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC has achieved a net inflow of $77.5 million over the past 7 days, positioning itself as one of the few major centralized exchanges (CEXs) to demonstrate positive momentum during a widespread market decline, according to DeFiLlama. The exchange’s total monthly net inflow reached $1.79 billion, a 12.4% rise from the previous month, highlighting its resilience and consistent growth amid cautious user behavior across the broader market.

    DeFiLlama data also ranks MEXC among the top 3 exchanges for monthly inflows, with $84.25 million recorded in April alone and a total value locked (TVL) of $2.8 billion as of April 9, 2025. This performance reflects MEXC’s growing credibility and ability to attract liquidity despite ongoing market volatility.

    Exchange 7-Day Net Inflow 30-Day Net Inflow
    Binance +$888 million +$3.7 billion
    Bybit +$564.9 million +$3.2 billion
    MEXC +$77.5 million +$1.79 billion
    Kucoin −$40 million −$893.5 million
    HTX +$402.1 million +$464.9 million

    Net Inflow Trends Across Major CEXs (Source: https://defillama.com/cexs)
    MEXC’s standout performance over the past month can be attributed to its strategic focus on trading initiatives and ecosystem development. The key drivers behind this success include the following:

    1. Strategic Initiatives: Through its “Zero Trading Fee” campaign, MEXC significantly boosted trading volume and user engagement.
    2. BNB Chain Ecosystem Focus: MEXC’s targeted approach to CZ/BNB-Chain concept tokens, coupled with high returns and trading volumes of popular tokens, further drove user fund inflows.
    3. Capturing High-Potential Tokens: As the first platform to list CZ/BNB-Chain concept tokens like MUBARAK, MEXC created opportunities for low-cost entry and high returns, drawing significant user capital.
    4. Launch of DEX+: The launch of DEX+, a hybrid centralized-decentralized trading platform, lowered the barriers to on-chain trading, enhancing MEXC’s appeal to users and boosting fund inflows.

    1. Zero Trading Fee Strategy Significantly Boosts Trading Activity

    During its March Zero Trading Fee campaign, MEXC introduced trading pairs such as SOL/USDT, HYPE/USDT, and S/USDT, resulting in a 17.8% month-over-month increase in the number of traders and a remarkable 170.2% surge in trading volume. Notably, SOL/USDT saw a 185.62% increase in trading volume, with its average daily trading volume accounting for 19.0% of MEXC’s total futures trading volume – a growth rate of 189.69%—making it the standout pair of the quarter. ADA/USDT recorded the highest growth, with a 369.44% increase in trading volume and a 393.05% rise in its share of MEXC’s daily futures trading volume. Additionally, DOGE/USDT and SUI/USDT saw trading volume increases of 82.87% and 70.84%, respectively.

    0 Trading Fee strategy also significantly enhanced MEXC’s market share. Trading pairs such as AIXBT/USDT, DOGE/USDT, and SOL/USDT led market share growth with increases of 331%, 283%, and 209%, respectively. DOGE/USDT and SOL/USDT achieved market shares of 30.5% and 30.3%, respectively, ranking first among the same pairs on CoinMarketCap (CMC), while ADA/USDT secured the second spot with a 20.6% market share. These figures demonstrate that the 0 Trading Fee campaign effectively ignited user trading enthusiasm, driving substantial fund inflows to the platform.

    2. Strategic Focus on BNB Chain Ecosystem Fuels Hot Token Trading

    The BNB Chain ecosystem has emerged as a new hotspot for on-chain assets over the past month, and MEXC’s strategic focus on this ecosystem has paid off. In March, BNB Chain ecosystem tokens accounted for 50.8% of new token spot trading users, a 30.1% month-over-month increase, while their trading volume share soared to 56.6%, reflecting a 63.5% month-over-month growth. This made the BNB Chain ecosystem a core driver of March’s trading surge.

    The top five BNB Chain ecosystem tokens delivered an average return of 3,760%, creating significant profit opportunities for users while fueling a trading frenzy. Star tokens like MUBARAK, BUBB, and TUT led the charge with gains of 10,900%, 4,168%, and 2,000%, respectively, contributing 17%, 4%, and 7% to new token trading volume. MUBARAKAH and BMT also performed strongly, contributing 4% and 3% to trading volume, respectively. The robust trading activity of BNB Chain ecosystem tokens further attracted user fund inflows, injecting fresh momentum into MEXC’s growth.

    3. First-Mover Advantage in Token Launches Makes MEXC a Go-To Platform for Low-Cost Entry

    MEXC demonstrated industry-leading prowess in launching CZ-concept tokens. On March 14, 2025, at 12:35:00 (UTC+8), MEXC became the first exchange to list MUBARAK, outpacing all other platforms. Within 24 hours of its launch, MUBARAK surged by 1,377.5%, reaching a peak price of $0.22—a staggering 10,900% increase from its listing price. By the close of March 18, MUBARAK’s average daily trading volume had grown by 197% compared to March 15–16, with the number of traders rising by 76% month-over-month, reflecting sustained user enthusiasm.

    4. DEX+ Launch Enhances User Experience and Fund Attraction Through Innovation

    In March, MEXC introduced DEX+, a hybrid centralized-decentralized trading platform that allows users to engage in decentralized trading without leaving the MEXC app or website, providing access to a wide range of on-chain assets. Currently, DEX+ supports over 15,000 tokens across the Solana and BNB Chain ecosystems, covering a broad spectrum of on-chain assets. This innovative model not only enhances trading convenience but also strengthens MEXC’s appeal to on-chain trading users, further driving fund inflows.

    Conclusion

    With $1.79 billion in fund inflows over the past month and a 63.9% fund inflow efficiency, MEXC has demonstrated its competitive strength among global cryptocurrency exchanges. Whether through its 0 Trading Fee campaign to boost trading activity, its strategic focus on the BNB Chain ecosystem, its first-mover advantage in launching high-potential tokens, or the innovative launch of DEX+, MEXC has leveraged innovation to drive rapid fund inflows. Looking ahead, as the crypto market continues to evolve, MEXC is well-positioned to attract more global users and solidify its market standing by further enhancing user experience and expanding its market presence.

    About MEXC
    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto.” Serving over 36 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, everyday airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.
    MEXC Official Website｜ X ｜ Telegram ｜How to Sign Up on MEXC

    Source

    Contact:
    Lucia Hu
    lucia.hu@mexc.com

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by MEXC. 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.
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    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4d12447d-9018-4bc9-93c6-970fbbc000fc

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Afreximbank commissions first-of-its-kind African Trade Centre in Abuja, Nigeria – marking a new era for Intra-African trade

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

    ABUJA, Nigeria, April 11, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Multilateral Bank African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) has officially commissioned its first Afreximbank African Trade Centre (AATC) today in Abuja, Nigeria, ushering in a transformative era for trade and investment in Africa.

    During the grand commissioning ceremony, speakers, including Hon. Dr. George Akume, Secretary to the Government of Federation, Nigeria representing H. E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, The Federal Republic of Nigeria, highlighted the AATC’s strategic importance, its pivotal role in shaping Africa’s economic future and the significant impact it is poised to make on Africa’s trade and investment landscape.

    Speaking at the Ceremony, Dr. Akume stated, “Afreximbank African Trade Centre (AATC) is a landmark project that embodies our shared commitment to advancing Intra-African Trade, fostering economic integration and unlocking a vast potential of our continent. This occasion is a realisation of a bold vision for Africa’s economic future. AATC stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, resilience and forward-thinking leadership. It is more than a physical structure; it is the beginning of innovation, a hub for entrepreneurship and a catalyst for sustainable development.

    He added, “This centre will serve as a critical platform for trade facilitation, capacity building and investment promotion – key pillars of Africa’s economic transformation. Afreximbank’s role in shaping Africa’s trade landscape cannot be overstated because the institution has consistently demonstrated its commitment to breaking down barriers, bridging financing gaps and empowering African businesses to be competitive. All these have been accomplished through flagship projects such as the AfCFTA adjustment fund that is managed by Afreximbank’s subsidiary, Fund for Export Development in Africa (FEDA), PAPSS and other Trade Finance Programmes. The AATC located in Abuja represents yet another milestone in this journey and this aligns perfectly with Nigeria’s strategic priorities under the Federal Government’s eight-point agenda, particularly in the areas of job creation, economic diversification, and regional integration. As we commission this remarkable edifice today, let us renew our resolve to be the stronger, more interconnected and prosperous Africa.”

    Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, echoed this sentiment, remarking, “The Abuja AATC is the first of several AATCs being developed across Africa and the Caribbean. Some would be Afreximbank owned while others would be supported through a franchise-scheme. With these, we expect to create a sizeable network of AATCs that will act as the lighthouses to guide the interconnections and flow of trade and investments within continental Africa and between Africa and Caribbean regions. This AATC Abuja has been a 41-month journey, one built on hope and determination. Like the other AATCs, the Abuja AATC would serve a multi-purpose goal; it will serve as a platform for fostering deeper regional and continental integration and house Afreximbank’s permanent regional office, bringing a three-decade-old aspiration to fruition. This AATC will also offer a technology incubation hub, an SME incubation facility, a Digital Africa Trade Gateway, a conference and exhibition facility and a business hotel.”

    Prof. Orama thanked the Federal Government of Nigeria for its support noting that the relationship between the Bank and Nigeria has been truly mutually beneficial and most cordial. “Over the last three decades, successive governments have accorded unflinching support to Afreximbank, responding most positively to capital calls, creating a congenial environment for its smooth operations while providing the Bank significant domestic policy support that helped to execute many of the development programmes in Nigeria.” He said.

    With the opening of the Abuja AATC, Afreximbank continues its mission to promote intra-African trade and investment opportunities, laying the groundwork for a more prosperous and integrated African economy.

    Over 500 distinguished guests attended the commissioning ceremony, notably, Hon. William F. Duguid, J.P. Senior Minister, Prime Minister’s Office, Republic of Barbados, Hon. Sylvester Grisby, Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, Liberia, Hon. Adebayo Olawale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Nigeria and his counterpart, Hon. Dr. Jumoke Oduwole MFR, Minister of Trade and Investment, Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment, Nigeria as well as Nigeria’s former Vice President Hon. Namadi Sambo. Hon. Bockaire Kalokoh, Deputy Minister of Finance of Sierra Leone and Hon. Sheilla Chikomo, Deputy Minister Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Zimbabwe represented their respective countries. The event was also well attended by business leaders led by billionaire entrepreneur Mr. Aliko Dangote, Founder and Chief Executive of the Dangote Group, Mr Tony Elumelu, Chairman of Transcorp Group, policymakers, pan-African CEOs, and entrepreneurs.

    Their presence showcased a shared vision and determination to enhance trade across Africa, as they pledged to work together to leverage the AATC for the continent’s economic transformation.

    The Abuja AATC comprises two interconnected nine-storey towers. One tower features world-class commercial A-grade office spaces, a trade and exhibition centre, a conference centre, a technology and SME incubator, a Digital Trade Gateway and a trade information services hub. The adjoining tower boasts a 148-room business hotel, seminar and meeting rooms, a wellness centre, a restaurant and other ancillary facilities. These features are designed to provide a comprehensive ecosystem for trade and business activities, catering to the diverse needs of African businesses. It will also host office spaces for local and international financial institutions and policy organisations, ensuring a complete support system for trade and business activities.

    The AATC building is expected to achieve gold – and potentially platinum – Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), a globally recognised standard for sustainable building design and construction. This certification will make the Abuja AATC one of the few certified buildings in Nigeria and West Africa, underscoring its commitment to environmental sustainability.

    The global architect Messrs SVA International developed a multifaceted global design, drawing inspiration from the concept of a bazaar, which reflects the vibrant feature of daily life in many African cities. Construction of the USD120 million project commenced in November 2021 on a prime piece of land measuring 5,856 square meters and achieved completion in 41 months.

    The Abuja Afreximbank African Trade Centre (Abuja AATC) is the first of seven planned AATCs across Africa, including Kampala, Uganda, Harare, Zimbabwe, Cairo, Egypt, Yaoundé, Cameroon, Tunis, Tunisia, and Kigali, Rwanda. In addition, Afreximbank recently broke ground in Bridgetown, Barbados, to construct the first AATC outside of Africa. Through franchising and licensing arrangements, the Bank intends to partner with relevant institutions and economic development organizations to establish non-Bank owned ATCs in the rest of Global Africa. These AATCs will serve to link buyers, sellers, suppliers, service providers, enterprises, governments, chambers of commerce, financial institutions, economic development organisations and the general African and global trade and investment community.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Man arrested and counterfeit clothes seized in Liverpool City Centre

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Merseyside Police has arrested a man and seized suspected counterfeit clothing with a retail value of approximately £80,000 after officers visited a shop in Liverpool city centre.

    In partnership with representatives from Liverpool City Council’s Trading Standards team, officers paid a visit to the store on Wednesday 9 April and seized a large quantity of clothes and trainers.

    It’s suspected that the items, which had Adidas, Nike and The North Face logos attached to them, were counterfeit and being sold to the public as legitimate products. Officers also seized cash at the premises that is believed to have been made from selling the products.

    A 69-year-old man from Manchester has been arrested on suspicion of:
    • Acquiring/using/possessing criminal property
    • Three counts of applying to goods/packaging a sign identical to/likely to be mistaken for a registered trade mark

    He has been bailed pending further inquiries.

    City centre Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant Richard Clare said: “This arrest forms part of our ongoing work in the city centre aimed at disrupting criminal activity.

    “Along with our partners at Trading Standards at the council, we are committed to protecting the public from poor quality or unsafe goods which put consumers at risk and threatens legitimate businesses.

    “While they might look like the real thing, counterfeit clothing is usually made from poor quality materials and may be easily flammable or otherwise unsafe.

    “We’ll continue to work with partners to drive this work forward and make Liverpool a safer place.”

    Cllr Laura Robertson-Collins, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Neighbourhoods and Streetscene added: “It is important that everyone is vigilant when it comes to counterfeit goods – we all like a bargain, but counterfeit clothing is poor quality, potentially unsafe and is often linked with the funding of illegal activities.

    “It’s great to see our Trading Standards team work in partnership with Merseyside Police to crackdown on the sale of these goods to protect consumers. I hope this sends out a strong message to all retailers that we will not tolerate the sale of counterfeit products in our city and are not afraid to take swift and serious action.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The Magic of Indian Silk

    Source: Government of India

    The Magic of Indian Silk

    From Sericulture to Masterpiece

    Posted On: 11 APR 2025 1:16PM by PIB Delhi

    • Silk connects India’s history, tradition and art, evident in iconic silk sarees like Kanchipuram and Banarasi.
    • Silk is made from silkworms that eat mulberry leaves. The silkworms spin cocoons, which are then turned into silk threads and woven into fabric.
    • India is the second-largest producer and consumer of silk globally.
    • India’s raw silk production increased from 31,906 MT in 2017-18 to 38,913 MT in 2023-24.
    • The area under mulberry plantations grew from 223,926 ha in 2017-18 to 263,352 ha in 2023-24.

    • Silk and silk goods exports grew from ₹1,649.48 crores in 2017-18 to ₹2,027.56 crores in 2023-24.

    Introduction

    Silk is a thread that connects India’s history, tradition and art. From the rich, bright colors of Kanchipuram sarees to the earthy beauty of Bhagalpur Tussar, every silk saree tells a story. They are made from pure mulberry silk, woven with care and skill by artisans. This craft has been passed down through generations. As the loom hums with the rhythm of their hands, the silk saree comes to life—not just as clothing, but as a symbol of India’s diverse and vibrant soul, stitched together by the art of silk.

    India’s Journey of Sericulture

     

    Life Cycle of Moth

    Sericulture is the process of farming silkworms to make silk. Silkworms are raised on mulberry, oak, castor, and arjun leaves. After about a month, they spin cocoons. These cocoons are collected and boiled to soften the silk. The silk threads are then pulled out, twisted into yarn, and woven into fabric. This careful process turns small silkworms into shiny silk.

     

    Economic Role of Silk in Developing India

    India is the second largest producer of silk and also the largest consumer of silk in the world. In India, mulberry silk is produced mainly in the states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Jammu & Kashmir and West Bengal, while the non-mulberry silks are produced in Jharkhand, Chattisgarh, Orissa and north-eastern states.

    • Mulberry silk comes from silkworms that eat only mulberry leaves. It is soft, smooth, and shiny with a bright glow, making it perfect for luxury sarees and high-end fabrics. 92% of the country’s total raw silk production comes from mulberry.
    • Non-mulberry silk (also known as Vanya silk) comes from wild silkworms that feed on leaves from trees like oak, castor and arjun. This silk has a natural, earthy feel with less shine but is strong, durable, and eco-friendly.

    Silk is a high value but low volume product accounting for only 0.2 % of world’s total textile production. Silk production is regarded as an important tool for economic development. The developing countries rely on it for employment generation, especially in rural sector and also as a means to earn the foreign exchange.

    India’s Silk Market Overview

    • India’s raw silk production has experienced steady growth, rising from 31,906 MT in 2017-18 to 38,913 MT in 2023-24.
    • This growth is supported by the expansion of mulberry plantations from 223,926 ha in 2017-18 to 263,352 ha in 2023-24, which boosted mulberry silk production from 22,066 MT in 2017-18 to 29,892 MT in 2023-24.
    • Total raw silk production increased from 31,906 MT in 2017-18 to 38,913 MT in 2023-24.
    • Exports of silk and silk goods rose from ₹1,649.48 crores in 2017-18 to ₹2,027.56 crores in 2023-24.
    • As per Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics (DGCIS) reports, the country exported 3348 MT of silk waste in 2023-24.

    Silk waste consists of leftover or imperfect silk from the production process, such as broken fibers or pieces of cocoons. While it’s regarded as waste, it can still be repurposed to create lower-quality products like silk yarn or fabric, or even recycled into new silk items.

    Government Schemes in Silk Development

    Government schemes play a crucial role in the growth of the silk industry in India. These initiatives provide financial support and resources for various activities related to sericulture:

    The Silk Samagra Scheme is an important initiative by the government to improve the sericulture industry across India. Its objective is to scale up production by improving the quality and productivity and to empower downtrodden, poor & backward families through various activities of sericulture in the country.

    The scheme comprises four (4) major Components:

    1. Research & Development, Training, Transfer of Technology and I.T. Initiatives,
    2. Seed Organizations,
    3. Coordination and Market Development and
    4. Quality Certification Systems (QCS) / Export Brand Promotion and Technology Up-gradation.

    Silk Samagra-2 is an extension of this effort with a budget of Rs. 4,679.85 crore for the period 2021-22 to 2025-26. These interventions help improve the entire silk production process, from raising silkworms to producing quality silk fabrics.

    • So far, Rs. 1,075.58 crore has been provided in central assistance, benefiting over 78,000 people.
    • Financial support has been given to Andhra Pradesh (Rs. 72.50 crore) and Telangana (Rs. 40.66 crore) for the last three years to help with Silk Samagra-2 components.

    In addition to Silk Samagra-2, there are other schemes that support the silk and handloom sector:

    1. Raw Material Supply Scheme (RMSS): The Yarn Supply Scheme (YSS) with partial modification and renamed as Raw Material Supply Scheme (RMSS) has been approved for implementation during period from 2021-22 to 2025-26. To make available quality yarn & their blends to the eligible Handloom weavers at subsidized rates. Total 340 lakh kg of yarn has been supplied during financial year 2023-2024 under the Scheme.
    2. National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP): The National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP), running from 2021-22 to 2025-26, aims to support weavers in the handloom sector, including silk fabric producers. The scheme takes a need-based approach to foster the integrated development of handlooms and improve the welfare of handloom weavers. It provides support for raw materials, design, technology upgrades, and marketing through exhibitions. Additionally, it helps create permanent infrastructure like Urban Haats and marketing complexes, benefiting weavers both within cooperatives and in Self-Help Groups.
    3. Scheme for Capacity Building in Textile Sector Scheme (SAMARTH): Launched by the Ministry of Textiles, it is a demand-driven and placement-oriented program. Extended for 2 years (FY 2024-25 & 2025-26) with a budget of Rs. 495 crore to train 3 lakh people. Scheme focuses on entry-level training, as well as upskilling and reskilling in Apparel & Garmenting, handloom, handicraft, silk, and jute.

    These schemes have helped improve the quantity and quality of raw silk produced, contributing to the growth of the silk industry in India.

    Conclusion

    India’s silk industry has grown well with help from schemes like Silk Samagra and Silk Samagra-2. These have supported farmers, weavers and rural families. With more focus on training, new ideas, and better markets, India can become a global leader in silk. This will also help keep our silk traditions alive.

    References

    Kindly find the pdf file 

    ****

    Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Kataria/ Kamna Lakaria

    (Release ID: 2120877) Visitor Counter : 22

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Plastic Parks in India

    Source: Government of India

    Plastic Parks in India

    Accelerating Growth of the Polymer-Based Industrial Ecosystem

    Posted On: 11 APR 2025 1:03PM by PIB Delhi

    Introduction

    The Department of Chemicals and Petro-Chemicals is implementing the Scheme for Setting up of Plastic Parks under the umbrella scheme of New Scheme of Petrochemicals, to support setting up need-based Plastic Parks, with requisite state-of-the-art infrastructure, enabling common facilities through cluster development approach, to consolidate the capacities of the domestic downstream plastic processing industry. The objective is to consolidate and synergize the capacities of downstream plastic processing industry to help increase investment, production and export in the sector as well as generate employment. Under the scheme, the government of India provides grant funding up to 50% of the project cost subject to a ceiling of Rs.40 crore per project.

     

    A plastic park is an industrial zone specifically designed for plastic-related businesses and industries. It aims to consolidate and synergize the capacities of the plastic processing industry, promoting investment, production, and exports while generating employment. These parks also focus on achieving environmentally sustainable growth through waste management and recycling initiatives.

     

    Plastic Parks have emerged as an integral part of India’s strategy for managing plastic waste, promoting recycling, and supporting the chemical industry. 10 Plastic Parks have been approved so far in different States.  Details of funds released to these Plastic Parks during the last five years are:

     

    Plastic Park Location

    Approval Year

    Total Project Cost

    (₹ crore)

    Approved Grant-in-aid

    (₹ crore)

    Amount Released

    (₹ crore)

    Tamot, Madhya Pradesh

    2013

    108.00

    40.00

    36.00

    Jagatsinghpur, Odisha

    2013

    106.78

    40.00

    36.00

    Tinsukia, Assam

    2014

    93.65

    40.00

    35.73

    Bilaua, Madhya Pradesh

    2018

    68.72

    34.36

    30.92

    Deoghar, Jharkhand

    2018

    67.33

    33.67

    30.30

    Tiruvallur, Tamil Nadu

    2019

    216.92

    40.00

    22.00

    Sitarganj, Uttarakhand

    2020

    67.73

    33.93

    30.51

    Raipur, Chhattisgarh

    2021

    42.09

    21.04

    11.57

    Ganjimutt, Karnataka

    2022

    62.77

    31.38

    6.28

    Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh

    2022

    69.58

    34.79

    19.13

     

     

    Background and Objectives

    India stands 12th in the world export of plastics, as per the 2022 World Bank estimates. It has grown exponentially from 2014, when it was worth just 8.2 million thousand USD, as compared to the 2022 estimates, where it reached 27 million thousand USD. This growth has been a result of the constant efforts by the Indian government to promote the production and export of plastics, like setting up Plastic Parks.

    The Indian plastics industry was large but highly fragmented with dominance of tiny, small and medium units and thus lacks the capacity to tap this opportunity. The Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals formulated this scheme with a view to synergize and consolidate the capacities through cluster development and enhance India’s plastic production and export capabilities. The scheme has the following objectives:

    1. Increase the competitiveness, polymer absorption capacity and value addition in the domestic downstream plastic processing industry through adaptation of modern, research and development led measurers.
    2. Increase investments in the sector through additions in capacity and production, creating quality infrastructure and other facilitation to ensure value addition and increase in exports.
    3. Achieve environmentally sustainable growth through innovative methods of waste management, recycling, etc.
    4. Adopt a cluster development approach to achieve the above objectives owing to its benefits arising due to optimization of resources and economies of scale.

     

    Process of setting up a Plastic Park

    For the purpose of setting up Plastic Parks, the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals seeks preliminary proposals from state governments, highlighting the proposed location, financial details, broad cost estimates etc. Following in-principle approval from the Scheme Steering Committee, the State implementing agency is required to submit a Detailed Project Report (DPR) to the Department, which is evaluated and final approval is given by the Scheme Steering Committee based on the viability of the proposed project.

    For example, in November, 2020, the Department invited proposals from the state governments for establishing two new Plastic Parks. Proposals were received from the state governments of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh (02 proposals), Karnataka and Himachal Pradesh. These were examined by an Expert Committee, based on which the setting up of Plastic Parks at Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, and at Ganjimutt, Karnataka, was approved in July, 2022 and January, 2022 respectively.

    The Government provides grants-in-aid for the establishment of the Plastic Parks. The implementation of these projects as well as the process of getting them populated by industrial units is largely in the hands of the Special Purpose Vehicles set up by the State Government or State Industrial Development Corporation or their agencies. The respective States have taken several steps to promote private sector participation in these Plastic Parks, including conducting awareness and sensitization programmes for the industry, providing plots at competitive rates, giving tax incentives etc.

    Under the Scheme, common infrastructure for the sustainability and eco-friendliness of industrial units is provided including effluent treatment plant, solid/ hazardous waste management, facilities for plastic recycling, incinerator etc. Some of the Plastic Parks have also established in-house recycling sheds for recycling of plastic waste.

    Other Government Initiatives for promoting Plastic Production in India

    The other initiatives taken by the Government to enhance plastics processing are: 

    1. Centres of Excellence (CoE): To promote the research and development in polymer and plastics the department has established 13 Centres of Excellence in various national level institutes.

     

    Location of the Centre of Excellence (CoE)

    Title of Centre of Excellence

    Date of Approval

    National Chemical Laboratory, Pune

    Sustainable Polymer Industry to Research & Innovation

    15.04.2011

    Central Institute of Plastic Engineering & Technology (CIPET), Chennai

    Green Transport Network (GREET)

    01.04.2011

    CIPET, Bhubaneswar

    Sustainable Green Materials

    06.04.2013

    Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi

    Advanced Polymeric Materials

    15.03.2013

    IIT, Guwahati

    Sustainable Polymers (Sus-Pol)

    April 2013

    IIT, Roorkee

    Process Development, Wastewater Management in Petrochemical Industries

    12.02.2019

    CIPET, Bhubaneswar

    Bio-engineered Sustainable Polymeric Systems

    12.02.2019

    National Chemical Laboratory, Pune

    Specialty Polymers for Customized Applications

    12.02.2019

    CSIR – North East Institute of Science & Technology (CSIR-NEIST)

    Polymers, Their Composites and Polymeric Membranes for Sustainable Development of Petroleum Industries

    04.12.2020

    CSIR-IICT, Hyderabad

    Polymer Coatings for Decorative, Protective and Strategic Applications

    04.12.2020

    CIPET, Bhubaneswar

    Manufacturing of Next Generation Bio-Medical Devices

    04.12.2020

    IIT, Guwahati

    Sustainable & Innovative Design and Manufacturing of Polymer-based Products

    February 2022

    IRMRA, Thane

    Design and Development for Value added Toys of Rubber and Allied Finished Products

    February 2022

     

    These CoEs focus on various aspects such as sustainable polymers, advanced polymeric materials, bio-engineered systems, and process development for wastewater management in petrochemical industries. They aim to drive innovation, improve technology, and promote environmentally sustainable development within the sector.

    1. Skilling of Workforce: Central Institute of Petrochemical Engineering and Technology is conducting many short term and long-term courses in Plastics processing and Technology to cater to the skilling requirement of the industry. 

     

    Indian Plastic Industry and Environment Sustainability

    The Government of India has taken several steps to ensure that the development of the plastic industry is environmentally sustainable and aligned with global sustainability standards.

    1. The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Regulations for plastic packaging mandate targets for minimum level of reuse, recycling and use of recycled content. This ensures accountability for waste collection, recycling, and reuse. Certain single-use plastics have been banned, with a focus on reducing plastic waste. The regulations also mandate to utilize minimum amount of recycled material in packaging products.
    2. The Hazardous Waste Management Rules seek to ensure proper disposal of hazardous chemicals and promote waste minimization and resource recovery.
    3. The Government promotes the adoption of circular economy principles in the plastic industry, including recycling and the use of biodegradable alternatives. In order to promote the latest technologies and products for circular economy, the Department supports and encourages industry in organizing discussions and exhibitions to showcase the latest technologies and machinery for waste management, recycling and up-cycling as well as the innovative products made from recycled material.
    4. India engages with international organizations such as the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to enable compliance with global sustainability standards. Further, India actively participates in meetings of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) which formulates international standards for plastic products.

     

    Conclusion

    The Plastic Parks scheme, under the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, represents a comprehensive and forward-looking initiative that addresses both the industrial growth and environmental sustainability of the Indian plastics sector. By providing state-of-the-art infrastructure, fostering cluster-based development, and encouraging private sector participation, the scheme not only strengthens India’s downstream plastic processing capabilities but also attracts investment, boosts exports, and generates employment. As India continues to rise in global plastic trade rankings, the Plastic Parks scheme and allied measures will remain crucial to ensuring that this growth is sustainable, inclusive, and innovation-driven.

    References

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AU5708_ToUfDC.pdf?source=pqals

    https://chemicals.gov.in/plastic-park-scheme

    https://chemicals.gov.in/sites/default/files/plastic_park_doc/FPP260613.pdf

    https://wits.worldbank.org/CountryProfile/en/Country/WLD/Year/LTST/TradeFlow/Export/Partner/by-country/Product/39-40_PlastiRub

    https://wits.worldbank.org/CountryProfile/en/Country/IND/Year/2014/TradeFlow/EXPIMP/Partner/WLD/Product/All-Groups

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/183/AU3054_q0N7Gr.pdf?source=pqals

    https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/1712/AU2634.pdf?source=pqals

    https://chemicals.gov.in/centre-excellence

    https://sansad.in/getFile/annex/266/AU2424_X8QRU6.pdf?source=pqars

    Kindly find the pdf file 

    ****

    Santosh Kumar | Sarla Meena | Rishita Aggarwal

    (Release ID: 2120876) Visitor Counter : 109

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Nominations for Padma Awards–2026 open till 31st July, 2025

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 11 APR 2025 12:53PM by PIB Delhi

    Nominations/recommendations for the Padma Awards-2026 to be announced on the occasion of Republic Day, 2026 have started on 15thMarch, 2025. The last date for nominations for Padma Awards is 31stJuly, 2025. The nominations/recommendations for Padma Awards will only be received online on the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal (https://awards.gov.in ).

    The Padma Awards, namely, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, are amongst the highest civilian awards of the country. Instituted in 1954, these Awards are announced on the occasion of the Republic Day every year. The Award seeks to recognize ‘work of distinction’ and is given for distinguished and exceptional achievements/service in all fields/disciplines, such as Art, Literature and Education, Sports, Medicine, Social Work, Science and Engineering, Public Affairs, Civil Service, Trade and Industry etc. All persons without distinction of race, occupation, position or sex are eligible for these Awards. Government servants including those working with PSUs, except Doctors and Scientists, are not eligible for Padma Awards.

    The Government is committed to transform Padma Awards into “People’s Padma”. All citizens are, therefore, requested to make nominations/recommendations, including self-nomination. Concerted efforts may be made to identify talented persons whose excellence and achievements really deserve to be recognized from amongst women, weaker sections of the society, SCs & STs, divyang persons and who are doing selfless service to the society.

    The nominations/recommendations should contain all relevant details specified in the format available on the above said Portal, including a citation in narrative form (maximum 800 words), clearly bringing out the distinguished and exceptional achievements/service of the person recommended in her/his respective field/discipline.

    Details in this regard are also available under the heading ‘Awards and Medals’ on the website of Ministry of Home Affairs (https://mha.gov.in) and on the Padma Awards Portal (https://padmaawards.gov.in). The statutes and rules relating to these awards are available on the website with the link https://padmaawards.gov.in/AboutAwards.aspx .

    *****

    RK/VV/PR/PS

    (Release ID: 2120873) Visitor Counter : 167

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Could changing your diet improve endometriosis pain? A recent study suggests it’s possible

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Evangeline Mantzioris, Program Director of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Accredited Practising Dietitian, University of South Australia

    ovchinnikova_ksenya/Shutterstock

    Endometriosis affects around 10% of women of reproductive age. It’s a chronic inflammatory condition that occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside the uterus.

    Endometriosis can cause chronic pain, bloating, bowel and bladder dysfunction, pain during sex and infertility. These symptoms can lead to reduced quality of life and mental health challenges.

    Although endometriosis pain can be treated with medication or surgery, these options are not suitable for everyone, and a significant number of women experience recurrent symptoms even after surgery.

    Many women with endometriosis look to complementary therapies to manage their symptoms, which can include dietary changes and taking supplements.

    A recent study sought to understand different dietary strategies women with endometriosis use and how these affect their pain levels. The researchers found cutting down on things like dairy, gluten, caffeine and alcohol could improve endometriosis pain.

    Let’s take a closer look.

    What the researchers did and found

    The study, which was led by researchers from the University of Edinburgh, involved an online survey. It asked women with endometriosis questions about any dietary changes they made and any supplements they used, and whether they found these useful for managing pain.

    A total of 2,388 women with a confirmed diagnosis of endometriosis completed the survey. Some 84% of respondents had made at least one dietary change, 67% of whom reported these changes improved their pain. Meanwhile, 59% had used supplements, 43% of whom considered these changes improved their pain.

    The following are some of the most popular dietary changes women had tried, and how they thought these changes affected their pain:

    • drinking less alcohol (improved pain in 53% of women)

    • eating less gluten (45%)

    • consuming less dairy (45%)

    • consuming less caffeine (43%)

    • eating less processed sugar, which can be found in foods and drinks such as lollies, cakes, biscuits and soft drinks (41%)

    • eating less processed foods, which include deli meats, savoury snacks such as chips and sausage rolls, and chocolate (38%)

    • following a low FODMAP diet, which involves avoiding short-chain carbohydrates (certain types of sugars) to reduce gas, bloating, pain and discomfort (32%)

    • adopting a Mediterranean diet, which is a diet high in plant foods (including fruit and green leafy vegetables), extra virgin olive oil, breads, fish, fermented dairy, and cereals and low in red meat, and processed meats and foods (29%).

    For supplements:

    • turmeric or curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric (improved pain in 48% of women)

    • magnesium (32%)

    • peppermint (26%)

    • ginger (22%).

    Around one in ten women of reproductive age have endometriosis.
    Drazen Zigic/Shutterstock

    Some limitations

    There are some weaknesses in this study to consider when interpreting the results. First, it’s an observational study, which means we cannot say these dietary changes and supplements cause decreased pain, just that there appears to be an link.

    To be more confident about the effects of dietary changes or supplements, we would need to do randomised studies with control groups.

    Also, the participants self-reported dietary changes they had made in the past and past pain levels. This relies on memory, which can be unreliable.

    All that said, this sort of research does provide us with clues about what may work, especially when we combine it with our knowledge of the actions these foods and supplements have in the body.

    So how would they work?

    Given the inflammatory component in endometriosis, the findings of this study are not entirely surprising. Many of the dietary changes and supplements this study looked at have anti-inflammtory properties.

    For example, reducing alcohol consumption, reducing processed foods, adopting a Mediterranean diet and using turmeric or curcumin may reduce inflammation.

    It’s possible certain dietary changes could improve endometriosis symptoms by reducing inflammation.
    PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock

    Some of the findings of this study seem to align with other evidence, while others don’t.

    For example, a recent review showed the Mediterranean diet can lead to reductions in pain, however the relevant studies did not have control groups. This same review showed a low FODMAP diet reduced pain and improved quality of life in people with endometriosis.

    Meanwhile, a 2024 paper concluded there’s a lack of evidence to support a gluten-free diet for endometriosis symptoms. The authors argued avoiding gluten to manage the condition should be discouraged.

    Peppermint has been reported to reduce period pain and nausea. But I couldn’t find any specific evidence for endometriosis.

    So what should you do?

    If you have endometriosis, this study and existing evidence suggests following a Mediterranean diet or a low FODMAP diet may reduce pain. This current study also indicates reducing your intake of alcohol, sugar and processed foods may help.

    Importantly, these changes won’t do any harm to your overall health. In fact, the Australian dietary guidelines recommend drinking alcohol and consuming processed foods in moderation, given links to a range of chronic diseases. So these changes may have other benefits too.

    However, some of the dietary changes reported in this study may be problematic.

    For example, eliminating dairy will significantly reduce your calcium intake which is important for building healthy bones and reducing the risk of osteoporosis in later life. However, there are other ways of ensuring an adequate intake of the nutrients found in dairy products.

    Reducing caffeine won’t lead to any health or nutritional concerns, but may affect quality of life for people who enjoy drinking coffee or tea.

    Women with endometriosis can try supplements such as turmeric or curcumin and ginger, but it’s best to try them one at a time, so you can identify which one works for you.

    If you’re looking to change your diet to try to manage endometriosis symptoms, it may be best to see a registered or accredited practising dietitian to ensure you’re following a nutritionally balanced diet.

    Evangeline Mantzioris is affiliated with Alliance for Research in Nutrition, Exercise and Activity (ARENA) at the University of South Australia. Evangeline Mantzioris has received funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council, and has been appointed to the National Health and Medical Research Council Dietary Guideline Expert Committee.

    – ref. Could changing your diet improve endometriosis pain? A recent study suggests it’s possible – https://theconversation.com/could-changing-your-diet-improve-endometriosis-pain-a-recent-study-suggests-its-possible-253945

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU students were told about the scientific discoveries of academician Mikhail Alekseevich Lavrentyev

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Meeting of students of Novosibirsk State University with the grandson of the founder of Akademgorodok, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Professor, Dean Faculty of Information Technology NSU Mikhail Mikhailovich Lavrentyev was held on April 4. It was dedicated to fascinating facts from the life of the founder of Akademgorodok, the academician, and was called “Scientific discoveries of academician Mikhail Alekseevich Lavrentyev. From mathematics, mechanics and physics of explosions to the first computers.”

    This year marks the 125th anniversary of the birth of the outstanding Soviet mathematician and mechanic, founder of the Siberian Branch of the USSR Academy of Sciences and the Novosibirsk Akademgorodok, Mikhail Alekseevich Lavrentyev. Residents of Akademgorodok cherish his memory. Currently, his name is borne by the Institute of Hydrodynamics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the SUNC (Physics and Mathematics School) of NSU, Lyceum No. 130, an auditorium at NSU…. A monument to the academician was erected on the avenue named in his honor.

    Mikhail Mikhailovich Lavrentyev began the meeting by listing the most important scientific achievements of Mikhail Alekseevich: the Lavrentyev effect in variational calculus, the lifting force of an airplane wing, conformal and quasi-comfort mappings, explanation of the cumulative effect, the first artillery nuclear shell, the first domestic computers, new materials – explosion welding, acceleration of particles to cosmic speeds, saving genetics, the fight for the purity of Lake Baikal, saving the city of Almaty (Kazakhstan) from a mudflow – the Medeu dam, the creation of new types of universities – PhysTech and NSU, the organization of the Siberian Branch of the USSR Academy of Sciences. And then he spoke in detail about some of them.

    Important contribution to the Victory

    Among the numerous awards of M.A. Lavrentyev is the Order of the Patriotic War, 2nd degree, which he was awarded in 1944. This Order was awarded to participants in military operations, but Mikhail Alekseevich was one of the few exceptions. He did not directly participate in the battles of the Great Patriotic War and was not at the front, but he made a significant contribution to the Great Victory as a talented scientist. The cumulative charges he developed became one of the factors that influenced the outcome of the Battle of Kursk (July 5 – August 23, 1943).

    — Previously, cumulative antitank aerial bombs were quite large in size, and domestic IL2 attack aircraft could take only a few of them on board, respectively, the maximum possible number of armored targets to be hit was also small. M.A. Lavrentyev proposed his own solution to the problem — the creation of a new generation of cumulative antitank aerial bombs, loaded into cassettes of 78 pieces. Lavrentyev’s PTABs were produced in Ufa, at the Prommetiz artel evacuated from Dnepropetrovsk. Each bomb weighed 2.5 kg and pierced up to 70 mm of armor with a cumulative pestle. This was enough to defeat the most protected Wehrmacht tanks: the armor thickness of the Panther on the turret was no more than 16 mm, and that of the Tiger — 28 mm. The PTABs from Ufa were first used in the Battle of Kursk, and they had a very worthy effect on the fascists – several hundred tanks were destroyed by air strikes, said M.M. Lavrentyev.

    It is important that instead of several heavy 100-kilogram anti-tank aerial bombs (PTAB), the IL2 attack aircraft carried 4 cassettes with 78 PTABs in each, which it literally “sprinkled” on German tanks from a height of 25 m. This ensured greater precision in the bombing strike and the safety of the aircraft itself, reducing to zero the risk of being shot down by the explosion of its own aerial bombs.

    Lavrentyev’s PTABs had another important advantage: unlike conventional aerial bombs made of expensive high-strength steel with a complex fuse, PTABs could theoretically be produced even in a wooden case. Therefore, they could be manufactured not at specialized factories, but in the most primitive conditions.

    The first nuclear artillery shell

    In the early 1950s, M. A. Lavrentyev was involved in the development of atomic weapons in the USSR. Work on the first domestic artillery nuclear projectile involved solving complex theoretical and experimental problems in hydrodynamics and gas dynamics, and preparing their solutions was a complex mathematical problem in itself. M. A. Lavrentyev was known as a major specialist in hydro- and gas dynamics, an outstanding mathematician, the founder of the theory of cumulative projectiles, and a well-known specialist in the use of explosives. Therefore, in 1953, he was transferred from the post of director of the Institute of Precision Mechanics and Computer Engineering to KB-11 (Arzamas-16, now the city of Sarov) to the post of deputy chief designer of the USSR Ministry of Medium Machine Building, which he held for two and a half years. During this time, M. A. Lavrentyev managed to create a creative team of young and talented specialists. Among them were Lev Vasilyevich Ovsyannikov, Dmitry Vasilyevich Shirkov, Vladimir Mikhailovich Titov and Bogdan Vyacheslavovich Voitsekhovsky. They later followed their leader to Akademgorodok and became academicians.

    — M.A. Lavrentyev’s scientific group faced a very difficult task: the projectile had to be compact in size compared to the products that had been created in this design bureau earlier, since they were to be used to load guns. At the same time, the projectile had to experience high overloads while maintaining combat capability. And these overloads were thousands of times greater than those typical for aerial bombs. Other difficulties arose, but the scientific team managed to successfully overcome them, and in 1956, an artillery shell with a nuclear charge successfully passed tests at the Semipalatinsk test site. As M.M. Lavrentyev said, the size of the projectile was still too large, so a gun of the corresponding caliber was specially made for it. Nowadays, similar weapons are installed on modern tanks, — M.M. Lavrentyev said.

    The first domestic computer

    In the 1950s, M.A. Lavrentyev took direct part in the creation of the first Soviet computer. At that time, he was the director of the Institute of Precision Mechanics and Computer Engineering of the Academy of Sciences, where the first computer, called BESM-1 (the first large electronic calculating machine), was being developed. But when performing this complex task, its developers faced competition from the relevant ministry, which at the same time was working on the creation of the Strela computer.

    — The competitors had many advantages, the most important of which was the financing of the work. In addition, 150 electron tubes were required to create BESM, which was a serious problem — about 100 tubes were issued per quarter to the entire Academy of Sciences, and it was impossible to acquire them in any other way. This issue was resolved thanks to the ingenuity of Sergei Alekseevich Lebedev, who is now considered the founder of domestic electronic computing technology. In 1950, he was invited to the Institute of Precision Mechanics and Computer Engineering of the USSR Academy of Sciences in Moscow by M.A. Lavrentyev. They went to the Minister of Radio Industry and asked: “Do consumers of tubes have many complaints against you?” He answered: “Yes, a lot. I believe that in most cases, tubes fail due to the fault of consumers.” Then S.A. Lebedev suggested: “Give us 150 lamps, we will have them in continuous operation, and we will inform you every month that the lamps are working well, and you will replace those lamps that burn out with new ones. The minister agreed, and the problem was solved,” M.M. Lavrentyev said.

    Tests of both machines were conducted in 1953. The advantages were again on the side of the competitors. All units of the new memory designed by S.A. Lebedev were addressed to the “Strela” by the decision from above, therefore the creators of BESM had to make the computer memory on the acoustic principle. This reduced its performance by 15-20 times. In addition, the chairman of the acceptance committee was the manager who had already created his own computing center for the “Strela”. And the first test results did not speak in favor of BESM. But M.A. Lavrentyev drew attention to the fact that one of the test tasks did not make sense. On this basis, he insisted on postponing the acceptance for six months and providing the BESM developers with units designed by S.A. Lebedev.

    — BESM was being improved for six months, after which it demonstrated significantly higher productivity: it solved all tasks assigned to it 5-8 times faster than Strela. In the competition between the two companies, the winner was not the one that had enough funds, people, and space, but the one that had progressive ideas. And BESM-1 became the predecessor of a series of domestic digital computers, — explained M.M. Lavrentyev.

    Throwing soil by explosion

    M.A. Lavrentyev made a significant contribution to saving the city of Almaty (Kazakhstan) from mudflows, which posed a serious danger. One of the evidences of this is the Issyk disaster that occurred on July 7, 1963. Then the mudflow caused the death of one and a half hundred Almaty residents.

    — Only one gorge was dangerous for mudflows. And it was proposed to create a protective dam in it by means of directed explosions. Several years before that, an article by several scientists, including M.A. Lavrentyev, was published in the journal “Applied Mechanics and Technical Physics” about the directed throwing of soil using explosives. This idea was implemented in this unique project, — said M.M. Lavrentyev.

    In 1964, the Kazakh branch of the Hydroproject Institute developed a project for a gravity rock-fill dam. Taking into account the experience of the 1963 mudflow, its design was significantly strengthened. M.A. Lavrentyev was among the scientific consultants of the project. As a result, for the first time in world practice, a 110-meter-high dam was created using directed explosions. The task was complicated by the terrain and seismic features of the area, but the creators of the dam coped – it withstood the mudflow that occurred shortly after the end of the work. To this day, the dam created by explosions protects Almaty from destructive mudflows.

    The students also learned how M.M. Lavrentyev managed to save the Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences from closure at a time when genetics was considered pseudoscience and was persecuted. They were also told about his other significant scientific achievements. However, M.M. Lavrentyev noted that Mikhail Alekseevich considered the creation of the NSU Physics and Mathematics School and the Young Technicians Club to be the most significant thing in his life. For him, the involvement of talented youth in scientific work was of primary importance.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Traded like assets, expected to be loyal: the unique double standard of being an Australian footy player

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hunter Fujak, Senior Lecturer in Sport Management, Deakin University

    Few issues in Australian sport generate as much media noise or emotional fan reactions as player movement, especially in our major winter codes the National Rugby League (NRL) and Australian Football League (AFL).

    Contract negotiations, trade whispers and club defections dominate headlines, talkback radio, social media and fan forums — often eclipsing the on-field action itself.

    In the past month, the sport news cycle has been dominated by player movement controversies involving the NRL’s Dylan Brown and Daly Cherry-Evans and the AFL’s Oscar Allen.

    The scrutiny these athletes face is one feature of a workplace defined by expectations rarely found in other industries.

    In a world where professional athletes are simultaneously financial investments and human beings, can fans, athletes and leagues strike a truly fair balance when it comes to player movement?

    A unique legal status

    Professional sport is exempted from several commercial laws that otherwise apply to typical industries. This is due to its peculiar economics.

    Crucially, leagues such as the AFL and NRL are permitted to operate as cartels, whereby clubs act collectively in ways that petrol stations or supermarkets legally cannot.

    One outcome of sport cartels has been the implementation of various restrictive practices on the recruitment, transfer and remuneration of professional athletes.

    Drafts, trade windows and salary caps are all anti-competitive mechanisms with two general aims: fostering “competitive balance” between teams and suppressing player wages to maintain leaguewide financial viability.

    These mechanisms remain in place mostly due to co-operation between leagues and their player associations (the AFLPA and RLPA), as their underlying legal standing is in fact ambiguous.

    Whether the AFL’s draft would survive a court challenge is debatable.

    Australia’s varied player movement rules

    National Rugby League

    The NRL operates a salary cap model with free agency. This affords athletes strong freedom of movement, including the potential to switch clubs mid-season. Some consider this to be a negative, given constant media conjecture over player movements. However, it keeps the NRL perpetually in the headlines.

    In the absence of a draft, individual NRL clubs are responsible for their own junior development and talent identification. The Penrith Panthers’ historic premiership four-peat was underpinned by successfully leveraging their immense junior catchment to develop NRL superstars.

    A benefit of this model is it maximises the opportunity for local juniors to play for their local team. This pathway from local junior to hometown hero authentically contributes to embedding NRL clubs within local communities.

    Australian Football League

    The AFL operates both a draft and salary cap, and players have considerably less autonomy.

    Player movement occurs almost exclusively in the post-season. Despite this, clubs sweet talk rival players in the shadows outside this window, hoping to make signings official in the off-season.

    This practice came into view this week by the controversy surrounding West Coast captain Allen’s meeting with a rival coach.

    The AFL draft takes place after the trade period and is the primary way for athletes to enter the competition.

    The draft order is inverted, linked to clubs’ on-field performance (the team that finishes last receives the first pick).

    Clubs are largely removed from the process of developing junior athletes, which is centralised through the AFL’s national talent pathway.

    The athlete perspective

    While professional athletes are often portrayed as privileged, there are few other professions that impose such severe restraints on the rights of workers.

    The Allen controversy is a reminder the AFL operates a system where the clubs are masters and players well-remunerated servants.

    For the crime of meeting another coach in considering his future, albeit clumsily, Allen was described as “selfish”, “a sell-out,”, “utterly disgusting” and compelled into a press conference apology.

    Criticisms of athletes as selfish scarcely acknowledge that, unlike doctors or lawyers, they have uniquely short timespans to exploit their sporting careers.

    In many sports, as is the case in rugby league, athletes are disproportionately from lower socio-economic settings, where the money is life changing.

    The fan perspective

    Professional sport thrives because fans are emotionally attached to their teams. Fans rarely switch the team they support, so they often expect the same from players.

    Fan attitudes on player loyalty are therefore largely driven by emotion rather than rationality. Few fans employed in contract work would reject meeting a potential future employer because of a sole dedication to their current employer, as was the case for Allen.

    Even fewer fans would reject the ten-year, $13 million contract accepted by Dylan Brown to depart the Parramatta Eels, yet many booed him for doing so, as Melbourne fans did in 2012 after the departure of former No.1 AFL draft pick Tom Scully to Greater Western Sydney.

    In 2007, Parramatta Eels fans even threw coins at departed player Jamie Lyon. Thankfully for Brown, Australia has since become a mainly cashless society.

    Is there a fair balance?

    Player movement in Australian footy codes is a system of regulations that attempts to balance the competing demands of various stakeholders.

    In recent times, the NRL has explored the introduction of trade windows, and drafts, seemingly in response criticism over player movement and competitive imbalance.

    Such proposals have received strong
    pushback from the RLPA.

    Responding to the Allen fallout, AFLPA boss Paul Marsh conceded the AFL ecosystem remains immature to player movement:

    There shouldn’t be outrage about this stuff but there is. As much as I think we should be mature enough to deal with this, it is the industry we are in.

    The challenge for these codes therefore isn’t just regulating player movement but confronting the double standard placed upon athletes that expects loyalty in a system designed to control.

    Hunter Fujak has served as an external advisor to several Australian player associations on a pro-bono basis, including the Rugby League Players Association.

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

    – ref. Traded like assets, expected to be loyal: the unique double standard of being an Australian footy player – https://theconversation.com/traded-like-assets-expected-to-be-loyal-the-unique-double-standard-of-being-an-australian-footy-player-253618

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese ambassadors upbeat about prospects of relations with neighboring countries

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    This photo shows a view of Nanning International Convention and Exhibition Center, the main venue for the 21st China-ASEAN Expo, in Nanning, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Sept. 24, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Chinese ambassadors say they are upbeat about building on historic achievements to open new prospects for China’s relations with neighboring countries, after a key meeting outlined goals and tasks for the next phase of the country’s neighborhood work.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, called for building a community with a shared future with neighboring countries and striving to open new ground for the country’s neighborhood work, at a central conference on work related to neighboring countries held in Beijing from Tuesday to Wednesday.

    China’s relations with neighboring countries are at the best level seen in modern times, and they are entering a critical phase in which regional dynamics and global transformations are deeply intertwined, the conference noted.

    “China always places its neighborhood diplomacy at the top of its diplomatic agenda, and ASEAN is the priority in this neighborhood diplomacy,” Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing said.

    Chinese and Malaysian leaders have reached a consensus on building a community with a shared future, and China-Malaysia trade accounts for one-fifth of China-ASEAN trade. In addition to the East Coast Rail Link project and other joint infrastructure projects, both countries are cooperating in such fields as 5G, artificial intelligence, big data, electric vehicles and photovoltaic products.

    “Under the strategic guidance of the leaders of the two countries, China-Malaysia relations will further grow, and cooperation between China and ASEAN will also expand,” the ambassador said.

    Representatives of China and five Central Asian countries attend a launching ceremony of the secretariat of the China-Central Asian cooperation mechanism in Xi’an, northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, March 30, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China-Central Asia relations have seen leapfrog progress with the establishment of comprehensive strategic partnerships between China and the five Central Asian countries, the launch of the China-Central Asia mechanism, and joint efforts to promote the growth of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), according to Chinese Ambassador to Kazakhstan Han Chunlin.

    President Xi’s vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity and his three global initiatives offer important guidance for the China-Central Asia mechanism and SCO development, Han noted.

    A drone photo taken on June 23, 2024 shows a view of Rashakai Special Economic Zone under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor in Nowshera, Pakistan’s northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    As a pilot project under the Belt and Road Initiative, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor has seen more than 25 billion U.S. dollars in direct investment and created more than 230,000 jobs. It has raised the level of China-Pakistan cooperation and promoted Pakistan’s economic and social development, according to Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong.

    “We will continue to promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, make greater contributions to the building of a community with a shared future for humanity, and safeguard China’s overseas interests,” Jiang said.

    China continues to bring development opportunities and certainty to its neighboring countries through its own development, said Shen Minjuan, Chinese ambassador to Mongolia. “In Mongolia, people remember President Xi’s offer of welcoming them to ride China’s fast train of development.”

    The 21st century will undoubtedly be the Asian Century, and China’s diplomacy with its neighboring countries holds immense potential, Shen said, adding that Asia should remain stable and thriving, thereby supporting China’s modernization drive.

    China and ASEAN have been each other’s largest trading partners for five consecutive years. ASEAN regards China as an indispensable partner for regional countries to achieve modernization, and China firmly supports ASEAN’s centrality in regional cooperation, said Chinese Ambassador to ASEAN Hou Yanqi.

    China encourages ASEAN to forge close ties with the SCO and BRICS, together practice genuine multilateralism and open regionalism, and safeguard international fairness and justice as well as the interests of developing countries, Hou said.

    An aerial drone photo taken on July 18, 2024 shows the Qingdao SCODA Pearl International Expo Center in the China-SCO Local Economic and Trade Cooperation Demonstration Area (SCODA) in Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Fu Cong, China’s permanent representative to the United Nations, noted that the world today is undergoing both transformation and upheaval, and that changes unseen in a century are unfolding at a faster pace.

    “The CPC Central Committee exercises overall leadership, maintains strong strategic resolve, and responds to challenges with steadfastness and prudence. This is our greatest source of confidence in advancing our diplomatic endeavors, and the root cause of the respect and growing influence China gains on the global stage,” Fu said.

    “We must unwaveringly uphold the vision of a global community with a shared future, continuously advance the reform and improvement of global governance, and safeguard the interests of developing countries,” Fu said.

    The ambassadors expressed opposition to the United States’ indiscriminate tariffs on all of its trading partners, saying that China and neighboring countries should oppose the fallacy of “might makes right” and work together to safeguard international fairness and justice, as well as the legitimate rights and interests of all countries.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Coons, Blunt Rochester, colleagues demand answers from the Trump administration regarding decision to cancel funding for Manufacturing Extension Partnership programs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons and Lisa Blunt Rochester (both D-Del.) joined a letter to Trump Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, led by Senator Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Committee, demanding answers regarding the administration’s decision to cancel funding for 10 National Institute of Standards and Technology Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Centers across the country. In addition to Senators Coons, Blunt Rochester, and Cantwell, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.) and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) also signed on.

    MEP Centers serve as a crucial bridge between small businesses and federal research facilities, providing businesses with key technologies and knowledge to improve manufacturing, make supply chains more efficient, and strengthen business practices. The affected centers in Delaware, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota and Wyoming have boosted the productivity and competitiveness of thousands of small American manufacturers across the country for decades. Delaware’s program has helped create or retain 423 jobs within the last year, and generate or maintain $34.3 million in sales and $42.5 million in new client investments.

    “Small manufacturers rely on MEP Centers for essential support in adopting the latest advanced technologies, updating their cybersecurity, navigating supply chain challenges, and accessing workforce training—resources that are often out of reach for small businesses without this dedicated assistance,” the senators wrote. “These centers drive innovation, boost productivity, and create high-quality jobs, strengthening both local economies and America’s global competitiveness. Without this critical federal support, MEP Centers—especially those with the fewest resources, and those serving rural and underserved communities—will be at the greatest risk of closure.

    Since 1988, the MEP has worked to strengthen and empower U.S. manufacturing through a nationwide network of MEP Centers. The MEP National Network is comprised of 51 MEP Centers located in all 50 states and Puerto Rico and over 1,450 trusted advisors and experts at more than 430 MEP service locations that provide any U.S. manufacturer with access to resources they need to succeed.

    The economic impact of these centers has been substantial. A report by Summit Consulting and the Upjohn Institute found that the MEP program generated an economic and financial return ratio of more than 17:1 on the $175 million in funding invested by the federal government in FY2023. The study also determined that MEP Centers contributed to an overall increase of nearly 309,000 jobs nationwide.

    The full letter can be read here and below.

    Dear Secretary Lutnick,

    We write to express our deep concern regarding the Department of Commerce’s recent decision to cancel future funding for ten National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Centers in Delaware, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, and Wyoming. This decision has raised widespread concern across the entire national network of MEP Centers, prompting fears about whether these initial cancellations are the first step in a broader effort to dismantle the program and eliminate federal funding for all 51 centers, with centers in Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, New York, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin expected to be notified about their status shortly. Given the MEP program’s long-standing, bipartisan support in strengthening small and medium-sized American manufacturers, we share these concerns and urge you to provide clarity and certainty on your plans for the future of the MEP program.

    According to the National Association of Manufacturers, 93% of manufacturers have fewer than 100 employees, while 75% have fewer than 20 employees.[1] Small manufacturers rely on MEP Centers for essential support in adopting the latest advanced technologies, updating their cybersecurity, navigating supply chain challenges, and accessing workforce training—resources that are often out of reach for small businesses without this dedicated assistance. These centers drive innovation, boost productivity, and create high-quality jobs, strengthening both local economies and America’s global competitiveness. Without this critical federal support, MEP Centers—especially those with the fewest resources, and those serving rural and underserved communities—will be at the greatest risk of closure.

    Dismantling this program would not only disrupt benefits for small businesses but also undermine decades of federal investment in domestic manufacturing resilience, which Congress prioritized in the MEP program in the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988. Congress also reauthorized the MEP program in the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022. NIST was provided $175 million in Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 to fund the MEP Centers. In FY2024 alone, the MEP National Network resulted in $2.6 billion in cost savings, $15 billion in new and retained sales, $5 billion in new client investments, and over 108,000 jobs created or retained.[2] Additionally, a report by Summit Consulting and the Upjohn Institute found that the MEP program generated a substantial economic and financial return ratio of more than 17:1 for the $175 million funding invested by the federal government in FY2023. The study also determined that MEP Center projects contributed to an overall increase of nearly 309,000 jobs across the United States.[3]

    Given these benefits and the funding in the FY 2025 Continuing Resolution, we request a full explanation of the rationale behind this funding decision and ask that you promptly reconsider. Additionally, we urge the Department of Commerce to provide Congress with an impact assessment detailing how this decision will affect manufacturers in the affected states and regions. This action has caused tremendous uncertainty for all MEP Centers and the thousands of American manufacturing companies and their workers.  Therefore, to better understand your plans for renewals across other states in the future, we request a briefing on the way ahead for the overall MEP program prior to making any final non-renewal decisions by April 30, 2025. 

    Eliminating federal support for MEP Centers would hamper American small and medium-sized manufacturers. We urge you to take immediate action to protect the MEP program and the manufacturers that rely on it. We look forward to your response no later than April 30, 2025, and are ready to work with you to find solutions that maintain and enhance the MEP program’s ability to serve America’s manufacturing sector.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Graham Introduce Latest Version of Trade Manufacturing Policy to Hold China Accountable

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC) introduced the latest version of the Foreign Pollution Fee Act to level the playing field for American manufacturers and workers by holding non-market economies like China accountable for their unfair trade practices. The legislation puts America’s efficient manufacturers at the center of industrial strategy, strengthening our economic resilience, reducing supply chain dependence on adversaries, and rewarding innovation in production. The original Foreign Pollution Fee Act was updated this year to incorporate feedback received during a public comment period. 
    “Other countries can decrease their cost of manufacturing by 20 percent by not enforcing the laws we take for granted. This means they take our jobs too. This is wrong,” said Dr. Cassidy. “It’s time the U.S. promotes fair trade, preserves jobs in Louisiana and elsewhere, and revives American manufacturing. That helps fulfill President Trump’s goal of rebuilding the Golden Age.”
    “It is long past time that the polluters of the world, like China and others, pay a price for their policies. This bill calls out the foreign polluters and rewards American businesses who are doing the right thing,” said Senator Graham. “We are leveling the playing field, and American manufacturers and business will be the biggest beneficiaries.”
    The Foreign Pollution Fee Act: 
    Combats China’s Exploitation of Trade Rules: This policy will level the playing field for U.S. businesses by countering the unfair practices of non-market economies like China, ensuring American manufacturers can compete and thrive.
    Strengthens Global Supply Chain Resilience: Diversifying trade relationships will reduce dependence on adversarial nations, making supply chains more secure against geopolitical disruptions and enhancing national security.
    Revitalizes American Manufacturing: By discouraging imports of pollution-intensive goods, this policy will bring jobs back home, strengthen domestic industries, and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
    Expands U.S. Export Markets: As high-polluting countries modernize their industries, they’ll increasingly demand American-made inputs, feedstocks, and cutting-edge technologies, opening new opportunities for U.S. exports.
    Deepens Trade Ties with Allies: By promoting partnerships with nations that share our economic and environmental values, this policy builds a coalition against predatory practices by the Chinese Communist Party, supporting emerging markets and allies alike.
    Rewards Leadership in Cleaner Manufacturing: The policy incentivizes international partners to adopt cleaner production methods while ensuring that domestic manufacturers maintain a competitive edge by continuing to lead in industrial decarbonization.
    Industry sectors covered by the Foreign Pollution Fee Act include iron, steel, aluminum, cement, glass, fertilizer, hydrogen, solar components, and certain battery inputs.
    Background
    Cassidy and Graham introduced an earlier version of their Foreign Pollution Fee Act to level the playing field with Chinese manufacturing and expand American production in 2023. Earlier this year, Cassidy released a new video featuring vocal support from several of President Trump’s Cabinet nominees for the Foreign Pollution Fee Act.  
    The Foreign Pollution Fee Act was a key topic at Cassidy’s Louisiana Energy Security Summit in October 2024.The summit featured ten panels that explored protecting U.S. interests from unfair trade practices, Louisiana’s low-pollution manufacturing advantage, and the role of natural gas in strengthening U.S. geopolitical influence. Panelists included presidents and CEOs from Entergy, First Solar, Buzzi UnicemUSA, Orsted, and Aluminum Technologies, former Trump administration officials, and leaders from Louisiana trade associations and major energy and Fortune 500 companies. 
    In September 2024, he released the 3rd episode of Bill on the Hill, where he highlights his Foreign Pollution Fee Act and discusses China’s growing economy and military coming at the expense of the American worker. After hearing fellow Americans share their concerns, Cassidy presented his plan to address the nexus between economic development, national security, and the environment. 
    He penned editorials in Foreign Affairs, The Washington Times, and jointly in the USA Today Network discussing the geopolitical threat that China poses to U.S. global standing. 
    In 2023, the Louisiana Senate and House of Representatives unanimously adopted a resolution urging Congress to pursue an industrial manufacturing and trade policy to counter competition from China. 
    The Foreign Pollution Fee Act is supported by a variety of key industry and advocacy stakeholders including: Steel Manufacturers Association, U.S. OCTG Manufacturers Association (USOMA), Portland Cement Association, Solar Energy Manufacturers for America (SEMA) Coalition, Ultra Low Carbon Solar Alliance, America First Policy Institute, Carbon Removal Alliance, Heirloom, Climeworks, Climate Leadership Council, Cleaner Economy Coalition (CEC), the Industrial Innovation Initiative (I3), Rainey Center Freedom Project, RepublicEN.org, Carbon Upcycling, Ceres, SAFE’s Center for Strategic Industrial Materials, Citizens’ Climate Lobby, ElementUSA, and Evangelical Environmental Network.
    “The Steel Manufacturers Association thanks Senator Cassidy and Senator Graham for introducing the Foreign Pollution Fee Act. This critical legislation will provide another strong path to ensuring fair trade. America has a tremendous competitive advantage because of its lower emissions manufacturing processes. We make the cleanest steel in the world. This is because the United States lets markets choose the most efficient production technologies and raw materials. However, poor overseas environmental standards, compliance, and enforcement creates an artificial advantage in trade that harms American producers and workers,” said Philip K. Bell, President of the Steel Manufacturers Association. “Current U.S. trade countermeasures are not specifically designed to address unfair trade practices related to the environment. Imposing a fee on foreign pollution helps monetize our environmental advantage and level the playing field. We look forward to working with Senators Cassidy and Graham on the Foreign Pollution Fee Act to support American jobs and competitiveness.”
    “The SEMA Coalition supports Senator Cassidy’s 2025 Foreign Pollution Fee Act. For American solar manufacturers to compete on a level playing field and outcompete China, we need innovative border measures such as a foreign pollution fee. Any successful, long-term strategy to reshore the solar value chain must prioritize taking these steps to safeguard the domestic solar industry from the impacts of global overcapacity,” said Mike Carr, Executive Director of the SEMA Coalition. “We are grateful for Senator Cassidy’s leadership and look forward to working closely with him and the administration to advance trade and tax policies that ensure a level playing field with China and longevity for U.S. solar manufacturers and workers.”
    “The Ultra Low Carbon Solar Alliance congratulates Senators Cassidy and Graham on the introduction of the Foreign Pollution Fee Act of 2025 and is proud to endorse the bill. The members of the Alliance are demonstrating that with the right policy mix U.S. manufacturers can claw back critical energy supply chains in the face of Chinese over subsidization and product dumping,” said Michael Parr, Executive Director of the Ultra Low Carbon Solar Alliance. “In recent years we have begun to re-establish U.S. solar manufacturing at scale, providing a secure supply of U.S. energy generation, bolstering U.S. energy dominance and security. Because solar manufacturing in China is twice as polluting as in the U.S., the Foreign Pollution Fee Act will provide a critical backstop against China’s ongoing efforts to evade U.S.tariffs, helping to ensure that America’s fastest growing form of energy generation continues to use U.S. made solar products.”
    “The cement industry supports policies that protect domestic manufacturers through robust trade mechanisms and data collection. Sen. Cassidy’s Foreign Pollution Fee Act is very thoughtful, pragmatic legislation that will highlight the carbon advantage of U.S. manufacturers and level the playing field against more carbon-intensive foreign imports,” said Sean O’Neill, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs for Portland Cement Association.
    “The Foreign Pollution Fee Act would create a fairer market for domestic manufacturers and foster innovation in the U.S.,” said Giana Amador, Executive Director of the Carbon Removal Alliance. “We commend Senator Cassidy for his leadership in protecting American entrepreneurs and advancing a homegrown carbon removal industry poised to generate jobs and billions in economic growth nationwide.”
    “In the global race to lead the industries of the future, it’s wrong to let U.S. manufacturers be undercut by countries that ignore the high standards our businesses uphold,” said Vikrum Aiyer, Head of Public Policy for Heirloom. “The Foreign Pollution Fee Act levels the playing field and makes it a fair fight—and in a fair fight, America wins, thanks to homegrown innovations like direct air capture that can mitigate the impact of our competitors flouting environmental standards, all while ensuring America remains the most competitive place in the world. We’re proud to be investing in such technologies in Louisiana to produce new energy solutions and carbon management tools, creating thousands of jobs to service nearly half a billion dollars in customer contracts and growing, as we onshore U.S. innovation to leverage the American advantage and strengthen our energy security.”
    “The Foreign Pollution Fee Act is an important way to protect and expand U.S. manufacturers’ strategic advantage in meeting rising global demand for decarbonized goods and services. Climeworks is proud to support Senator Cassidy’s initiative, which we believe will strengthen vital supply chain resilience,” said Daniel Nathan, Chief Project Development Officer for Climeworks. 
    “ElementUSA strongly supports your foreign pollution fee legislation, which levels the playing field for responsibly produced domestic minerals. By incentivizing cleaner supply chains, this policy directly advances our mission to reprocess industrial waste and reshore critical minerals using low-emission technologies. It empowers U.S. innovators like us to compete globally while turning legacy environmental liabilities into valuable, sustainable resources,” said Chris Young, Chief Strategy Officer for ElementUSA.
    “Senator Cassidy’s introduction of the Foreign Pollution Fee Act is a significant step forward in capitalizing on U.S. industry’s superior environmental performance and creating a more level playing field for years to come. By rewarding American firms for their lower pollution and holding higher emitters accountable, we will boost U.S. manufacturers, create more jobs, and secure critical supply chains,” said Greg Bertelsen, CEO for Climate Leadership Council. “The Council looks forward to working with Senator Cassidy and a growing coalition of stakeholders to advance a foreign pollution fee as a tool for leveraging America’s carbon advantage, strengthening the U.S. economy, and reducing global emissions.”
    “Citizens’ Climate Lobby welcomes the re-introduction of the Foreign Pollution Fee Act by Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC). Foreign polluters should be held accountable for the climate impacts of their exports to the U.S., and this bill takes a critical step in ensuring that imported goods reflect their true carbon cost. By requiring robust emissions accounting for foreign imports, the legislation promotes transparency and fairness in global trade. We are pleased to see this important bill reintroduced and our grassroots volunteers nationwide will be working toward its passage in Congress,” said Jennifer Tyler, VP of Government Affairs for Citizens’ Climate Lobby.
    “As a consensus-based coalition of industry, labor, and nonprofit leaders, the Industrial Innovation Initiative (I3) applauds Senator Cassidy’s ongoing commitment to American industry and congratulates him on this comprehensive effort to prioritize American workers, U.S. manufacturing, and a strong economy while reducing industrial emissions,” said David Soll, Industrial Decarbonization Manager for Great Plains Institute.
    “Senator Cassidy’s Foreign Pollution Fee is a bold America First solution that puts U.S. workers and manufacturers first—not China. It’s time we stop rewarding hostile regimes for cutting corners and start leveling the playing field for the American companies doing it right,” said Sarah Hunt, President for Rainey Center Freedom Project.
    “The Foreign Pollution Fee Act would bring accountability for dumping trash into the sky. That accountability would simultaneously level the playing field and spawn worldwide innovation,” said former U.S. Representative Bob Inglis (R-SC-04), Executive Director for RepublicEN.org.
    “The Foreign Pollution Fee Act aims to support the U.S. cement industry’s continued investment in innovative production technologies that lead to cleaner, more sustainable building materials,” said Juliane Kniebel-Huebner, COO for Carbon Upcycling. “We are grateful for Senator Cassidy’s leadership and look forward to working with him and our industry partners to continue to bolster the competitiveness of U.S. cement manufacturers.”
    “Ceres applauds the introduction of a foreign polluter fee in the U.S. Senate as a fair, predictable, and congressionally approved approach to global trade. This legislation would leverage U.S. trade and industrial policy to ensure the nation’s leadership in clean manufacturing and other key 21st century industries remain an advantage against China and other competitors, to the benefit of U.S. economic, geopolitical, and national security interests,” said Zach Friedman, Senior Director of Federal Policy for Ceres.
    “For too long, American industry has been competing on an uneven playing field on the global stage while bad actors like the Chinese Communist Party have adhered to unacceptably low standards to outcompete us on cost,” said Joe Quinn, Executive Director of SAFE’s Center for Strategic Industrial Materials. “By turning that uneven playing field into a competitive advantage for industries like batteries, steel, and aluminum that are critical to both national and energy security, the Foreign Pollution Fee Act will make the U.S. more self-reliant and restructure markets to reward innovation, not pollution.”
    “The Foreign Pollution Fee Act of 2025 delivers a three-fold win, defending the health of our children from harmful pollution, protecting the livelihoods of American workers, and leveling the playing field for American firms leading the way in clean manufacturing. The majority of products named in the Foreign Pollution Fee Act are powered by or directly utilize mercury-containing coal for production. While the United States reined in harmful mercury pollution a decade ago, other countries like China have no such protections on the books. China is responsible for 25-30% of the world’s mercury emissions, and unfortunately, air pollution doesn’t recognize national boundaries. Mercury pollution from coal combustion in China travels across the Pacific and is deposited in American oceans, lakes, and streams, resulting in widespread fish consumption advisories and continued risk of mercury-induced brain damage to our children, especially those in Alaska and our Western states. The Foreign Pollution Fee Act will help create the healthy environment and bright future that all God’s children, both here in the United States and across the world, deserve by ensuring foreign manufacturers finally clean up their act. On behalf of our children, we thank Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Lindsay Graham (R- SC) for their leadership advancing this critical bill,” said Reverend Dr. Jessica Moerman, President & CEO for the Evangelical Environmental Network.
    “Senator Cassidy’s introduction of the Foreign Pollution Fee Act opens the door for Congress to advance a critical tool for supporting American manufacturers—who are among the cleanest and most innovative in the world. A foreign pollution fee would create a fairer playing field for U.S. manufacturers, driving demand for cleaner, U.S.-made products and holding the worst global environmental actors accountable,” said CEC. “The Cleaner Economy Coalition looks forward to working with Senator Cassidy and other policymakers to advance a foreign pollution fee.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s commerce ministry to help exporters affected by US abuse of tariffs

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s Ministry of Commerce will help foreign trade companies facing export challenges to tap into the domestic market, the ministry said on Thursday.

    The United States has abused tariff measures on China, severely infringing upon China’s legitimate rights and interests, curbing bilateral trade and impacting Chinese foreign trade enterprises, said ministry spokesperson He Yongqian at a press conference.

    China will focus on managing its affairs well and use its “certainty” to hedge against the “uncertainty” of the external environment, the spokesperson said.

    She highlighted consumer goods trade-in programs, initiatives such as the Premium Foreign Trade Goods China Tour, and the integration of domestic and foreign trade as approaches for exporters to explore the domestic market.

    China has continued to unleash its vast market potential, supported by policies aimed at stabilizing the economy and foreign trade, the spokesperson said, adding that China’s foreign trade is well-prepared to face various risks and challenges. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Markey and Rep. Castor Urge FTC to Open Investigation into New Allegations that Meta Violated COPPA

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    New Petition and Whistleblower Statement Provide Evidence that Meta Knowingly Allowed Children to Use its VR Platform Horizon Worlds

       Letter Text (PDF)

    Washington (April 10, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Representative Kathy Castor (FL-14), a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, wrote today to Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chairman Andrew Ferguson urging the FTC to open investigation into allegations – in a petition submitted by advocacy organization Fairplay – that Meta violated the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). The petition contains significant evidence that Meta and its executives knew children were using Horizon Worlds, its virtual reality (VR) platform, and yet failed to obtain parental consent before collecting their personal information, as COPPA requires. Additionally, an accompanying sworn statement by a new Meta whistleblower further suggests Meta intentionally ignored child users on Horizon Worlds and disregarded its obligations under COPPA.

    In the letter the lawmakers write, “The Fairplay petition raises serious and troubling allegations. According to the complaint, Meta has knowingly permitted large numbers of children under the age of 13 to access Horizon Worlds using standard adult accounts — accounts that do not require parental notice or consent and that permit extensive data collection.

    The lawmakers continue, “As the authors of the Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA 2.0), we take these allegations with the utmost seriousness. Congress originally passed COPPA to safeguard children’s privacy in the face of evolving technological threats. Although the original law needs an update to account for those new threats, Meta appears to have blatantly violated the COPPA requirements. The volume of personal information collected from children in VR — including body movements, facial expressions, voice recordings, eye tracking, and environmental data — renders these allegations especially concerning. Moreover, VR platforms do not merely present screen-based content, they envelop young users in highly interactive, sensory-rich worlds that can blur the boundary between virtual and physical experiences. For those reasons, the allegations in the Fairplay petition deserve urgent attention from the FTC.”

    Senator Markey authored the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) in 1998 and continuously fights for young people on online platforms. He and Senator Cassidy reintroduced their update to COPPA, the Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA 2.0), in March 2025. In September 2024, the House Energy and Commerce Committee passed COPPA 2.0, co-led by Representative Castor, by a voice vote. In July 2024, the U.S. Senate passed the Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act, which included COPPA 2.0, by a 91-3 vote.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China expresses grave concern over US ‘reckless’ tariffs at WTO

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China on Wednesday expressed grave concern and firm opposition to the United States’ “reckless” tariffs at the World Trade Organization (WTO).

    On the first day of a two-day meeting of the Council for Trade in Goods, China proposed a discussion on the U.S. “reciprocal tariffs,” urging the United States to uphold the WTO rules, so as to avoid negative impact on global economy and the multilateral trading system.

    In its speaking, China slammed the U.S. tariff policy, saying it violates WTO rules and undermines the multilateral trading system.

    The rules of multilateral trading system, with the WTO at its core, serve as the indispensable foundation for global trade, and the most favored nation (MFN)-based tariff commitments ensure trade is conducted transparently, predictably and without discrimination, said China.

    The U.S. trade measures violate the MFN principle and contravene its own tariff binding commitments under WTO rules, said China, noting the measures are “a typical act of unilateralism, protectionism and economic bullying.”

    In addition, China said the United States is a key beneficiary of the multilateral trading system, and described assessing its gains solely through trade deficits or surpluses in goods as a narrow and misleading approach.

    The “reciprocal tariffs” will never be a cure for trade imbalances. Instead, they will backfire, harming the United States itself, China said.

    Emphasizing its belief that all trade disputes should be resolved through the WTO’s established mechanisms, China called on all WTO members to stand together in safeguarding the rules-based multilateral trading system.

    China’s statement was echoed by dozens of WTO members, including the European Union (EU), Switzerland, Canada, Kazakhstan, Britain and Brazil, which took the floor to voice their disapproval of the U.S. measures.

    The EU said U.S. tariffs constitute “a major blow to the world economy and the multilateral trading system,” noting such tariffs will not fix the global trade imbalances.

    Some members said the tariff actions could lead to increased trade tensions and instability, stressing the importance of resolving trade disputes through dialogue and cooperation within the WTO framework. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: SCO pledges support for open, transparent multilateral trading system

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

    China-SCO Conference on Industrial Cooperation for Sustainable Development is held in north China’s Tianjin, April 10, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    BEIJING, April 10 — The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on Thursday released a statement pledging support for an open and transparent multilateral trading system.

    The SCO member states support an open, transparent, just, inclusive and non-discriminatory multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization (WTO) at its core, and are committed to promoting the development of an open world economy, the statement said.

    The member states firmly uphold and strengthen the multilateral trading system with the WTO at its core in order to effectively address trade challenges, it said.

    The member states reaffirm the importance of strengthening development discussions within the WTO framework, and stress the need to support an open, inclusive, sustainable, stable, diversified and reliable global supply chain, per the statement.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: BREAKING: Republicans Block Cortez Masto’s Efforts to Exempt Our Allies Israel and Ukraine from Harmful Tariffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    FTPs for TV stations is available here.
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) called out Republican politicians for blocking efforts to exempt American allies under attack, Israel and Ukraine, from the Trump Administration’s harmful tariffs. On the Senate floor, Cortez Masto sought unanimous consent to pass her legislation which would exempt Israel and Ukraine from blanket tariffs that President Trump has slapped on these wartime economies.
    “We all know that targeted tariffs can be a useful tool to protect critical American manufacturing and combat our enemies, but that isn’t what President Trump is doing. Instead, he’s punishing our allies Israel and Ukraine,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Both these countries are currently under attack. They need the United States to be standing with them, not hitting them with nonsensical tariffs that could cause them even more harm. It is outrageous that my Republican colleagues blocked an opportunity to fix this and come together to protect our allies.”
    America’s ally Israel originally got hit with a 17% tariff – even though we maintain a Free Trade Agreement with them – their adversary Iran got tariffed at 10%. The Trump Administration put no tariffs on Russia, but charged Ukraine with a 10% tariff. As Senator Cortez Masto was speaking on the floor, President Trump announced via tweet that over 75 countries, including Israel and Ukraine, will be tariffed at 10% for the next 90 days.
    Senator Cortez Masto has consistently stood with Israel. She has repeatedly voted to deliver critical funding to support Israel’s national Security, and has urged the Administration to crack down on the finances of international terrorist organizations, including Iran’s state sponsorship of terrorism. She has also been a strong advocate for the U.S. to stand up to Russian aggression and support Ukrainian sovereignty. Cortez Masto has voted to pass bipartisan legislation to support Ukraine and helped pass bipartisan economic sanctions that were signed into law to hold Russia accountable for its illegal invasion of Ukraine.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 04/10/2025 Blackburn, Cantwell, Heinrich Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Increase Transparency, Combat AI Deepfakes & Put Journalists, Artists & Songwriters Back in Control of Their Content

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) reintroduced the Content Origin Protection and Integrity from Edited and Deepfaked Media Act (COPIED ACT) to combat harmful deepfakes. The bill would set new federal transparency guidelines for marking, authenticating and detecting AI-generated content, protect journalists, actors and artists against AI-driven theft, and hold violators accountable for abuses.  

    “Artificial intelligence has given bad actors the ability to create deepfakes of every individual, including those in the creative community, to imitate their likeness without their consent and profit off of counterfeit content,” said Senator Blackburn. “The COPIED Act takes an important step to better defend common targets like artists and performers against deepfakes and other inauthentic content.” 

    “The bipartisan COPIED Act I introduced with Senator Blackburn will provide much-needed transparency around AI-generated content,” said Senator Cantwell. “The COPIED Act will also put creators, including local journalists, artists and musicians, back in control of their content with a provenance and watermark process that is very much needed.”

    “Deepfakes are a real threat to our democracy and to Americans’ safety and well-being,” said Senator Heinrich. “I’m proud to support Senator Cantwell’s COPIED Act that will provide the technical tools needed to help crack down on harmful and deceptive AI-generated content and better protect professional journalists and artists from having their content used by AI systems without their consent. Congress needs to step up and pass this legislation to protect the American people.”

    The COPIED Act (S. 1396):

    Bill Text and Summary

    • Creates Transparency Standards: Requires the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to develop guidelines and standards for content provenance information, watermarking and synthetic content detection. These standards will promote transparency to identify if content has been generated or manipulated by AI, as well as where AI content originated. The bill also directs NIST to develop cybersecurity measures to prevent tampering with provenance and watermarking on AI content.
    • Puts Journalists, Artists and Musicians in Control of Their Content: Requires providers of AI tools used to generate creative or journalistic content to allow owners of that content to attach provenance information to it and prohibits its removal. The bill prohibits the unauthorized use of content with provenance information to train AI models or generate AI content. These measures give content owners—journalists, newspapers, artists, songwriters, and others—the ability to protect their work and set the terms of use for their content, including compensation.
    • Gives Individuals a Right to Sue Violators: Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and state attorneys general to enforce the bill’s requirements.  It also gives newspapers, broadcasters, artists, and other content owners the right to bring suit in court against platforms or others who use their content without permission.
    • Prohibits Tampering with or Disabling AI Provenance Information: Currently, there is no law that prohibits removing, disabling, or tampering with content provenance information. The bill prohibits anyone, including internet platforms, search engines and social media companies, from interfering with content provenance information in these ways.  

    Major Endorsements

    SAG-AFTRA

    “For SAG-AFTRA, protecting the ability of our members to control their images, likenesses, and voices is paramount. The capacity of AI to produce stunningly accurate digital representations of performers poses a real and present threat to the economic and reputational well-being and self-determination of our members.  Senator Cantwell’s legislation would ensure that the tools necessary to make the use of AI technology transparent and traceable to the point of origin will make it possible for victims of the misuse of the technology to identify malicious parties and go after them. We need a fully transparent and accountable supply chain for generative Artificial Intelligence and the content it creates in order to protect everyone’s basic right to control the use of their face, voice, and persona. We applaud Senator Cantwell for her leadership on the issue and support this legislation as part of a comprehensive approach to preventing unauthorized abuse of this transformative technology.” – Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator

    Nashville Songwriters Association International

    “The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI), the world’s largest songwriter advocacy trade association, applauds Senators Maria Cantwell, Blackburn and Heinrich for introducing legislation to help put transparency guardrails around Generative Artificial Intelligence for human creators. Specifically, we note her including artists in the Content Origin Protection and Integrity from Edited and Deepfaked Media Act and recognizing it is more financially feasible for songwriters and other human creators to adjudicate these matters in a local civil court when possible. NSAI will work with her office toward adoption of this important legislation.” – Barton Herbison, Executive Director NSAI

    Recording Academy

    “The Recording Academy applauds Chair Cantwell and Senators Blackburn and Heinrich for their commitment to the ethical use of AI and their recognition of the need for guardrails that provide transparency and protection for creators. We look forward to continuing to work with them as this process moves forward.”  – Todd Dupler, Chief Advocacy and Public Policy Officer

    National Music Publishers’ Association

    “We greatly appreciate Senator Cantwell’s leadership on preventing the unauthorized use and dissemination of deepfakes. The Content Origin Protection and Integrity from Edited and Deepfaked Media Act of 2025 ensures that AI-generated content is clearly identified and that there is recourse when those labels are tampered with. As AI-generated music continues to disrupt the legitimate market, it is essential that listeners know where their music is coming from. Artists and songwriters deserve protection against unauthorized imitations and this legislation is an important step towards that goal.” – David Israelite, President and CEO

    Recording Industry Association of America

    “Protecting the life’s work and legacy of artists has never been more important as AI platforms copy and use recordings scraped off the internet at industrial scale and AI-generated deepfakes keep multiplying at rapid pace. RIAA strongly supports provenance requirements as a fundamental building block for accountability and enforcement of creators’ rights. Leading tech companies refuse to share basic data about the creation and training of their models as they profit from copying and using unlicensed copyrighted material to generate synthetic recordings that unfairly compete with original works. We appreciate Senators Cantwell, Blackburn and Heinrich’s leadership with the Content Origin Protection and Integrity from Edited and Deepfaked Media Act of 2025 that would grant much needed visibility into AI development and pave the way for more ethical innovation and fair and transparent competition in the digital marketplace.” – Mitch Glazier, Chairman and CEO

    The Television Academy

    “The Television Academy, representing nearly 30,000 members across all disciplines of the television industry, applauds Senator Cantwell for reintroducing the COPIED Act. As artificial intelligence and digital replication technologies evolve, the need for transparency is tantamount. This bill will set necessary federal transparency guidelines for marking, authenticating, and detecting AI-generated content. Further, it gives the broad membership of the Television Academy the ability to control their voice, likeness, and creative expressions, and give content owners the ability to pursue recourse if their content is used without permission. The Television Academy looks forward to helping get the COPIED Act adopted.” – Maury McIntyre, President and CEO

    NewsGuild-CWA

    “Journalists are essential to a free and fair democracy. Too many media companies are attempting to replace journalists with AI, resulting in false, misleading clickbait and the decimation of our news ecosystems. It is essential that journalists are not replaced by misguided media companies looking to maximize profits at the expense of human-driven journalism that informs the public and holds our institutions accountable. We thank Senator Cantwell for her leadership on ensuring fair and equitable use of Artificial Intelligence that puts the worker and their rights at the center of the deployment of this new technology.” – Jon Schleuss, President  

    News/Media Alliance

    “The News/Media Alliance, representing over 2200 news, magazine, and digital media publishers worldwide, applauds the leadership of Senators Cantwell, Blackburn and Heinrich to address the need for AI regulation. We look forward to working with them to refine and advance this critical legislation to ensure news publishers and creators of quality content are adequately protected. Legislation should balance the innovation around these emerging technologies with preserving quality, accuracy, and a thriving free press, and Senators Cantwell, Blackburn and Heinrich have taken a major step forward to accomplish that by introducing this bill.” – Danielle Coffey, President and CEO

    National Newspaper Association
    “We appreciate Senator Cantwell for taking on this difficult and disturbing issue. Deepfakes fly in the face of the true intent of the First Amendment. It’s important that citizens continue to trust local news sources to bring them quality journalism that has been vetted and verified.” – John Galer, Chair, National Newspaper Association Board of Directors; Publisher of The Journal-News in Hillsboro, IL

    America’s Newspapers

    “America’s Newspapers, the trade association representing more than 1,500 local community newspapers, commends Senator Maria Cantwell for introducing legislation that addresses the emerging problem of deepfakes. It is critical to our democracy that news organizations provide their communities with trusted information and news. The issue of deepfakes must be addressed to maintain consumer confidence in news providers. We look forward to working with Sen. Cantwell on this important legislation.” – Dean Ridings, CEO

    Rebuild Local News
    “The proliferation of deepfakes is an enormous problem that’s going to get much worse if lawmakers and regulators don’t act. This will be particularly dangerous when it comes to residents getting information about their local communities because the collapse of local news has left us with fewer journalistic watchdogs. We commend Senator Cantwell for shining a spotlight on this issue and we look forward to working with her to devise appropriate policies in this complex area.” – Steven Waldman, President

    National Association of Broadcasters

    “Deepfakes pose a significant threat to the integrity of broadcasters’ trusted journalism,” said NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt. “We are grateful to Ranking Member Cantwell and Sens. Blackburn and Heinrich for reintroducing this bill to protect the authenticity of the vital local and national news that radio and television stations provide our communities. We also applaud efforts to prohibit the use of broadcasters’ news content to train generative AI systems without express consent and compensation to the news creator. We look forward to working with the committee to help advance this bill and these fundamental principles critical to our ability to continue serving communities with trusted news.” – Curtis LeGeyt, President and CEO

    Artist Rights Alliance

    “The Artist Rights Alliance (ARA) applauds Senator Cantwell for introducing legislation to combat deception and confusion in the AI marketplace and protect artists from the unauthorized and unethical use of AI. As AI technology continues to evolve at breakneck speed, we must ensure that creators do not fall victim to deepfakes and other abuses of their very personhood. ARA is grateful for Senator Cantwell’s commitment to building a framework for responsible AI that is grounded in the fundamental principles of transparency and choice.” – Jen Jacobsen, Executive Director

    Human Artistry Campaign
    “Deepfakes pose an existential threat to our culture and society, making it hard to believe what we see and hear and leaving individual creators vulnerable as tech companies use our art without consent while AI-generated content leads to confusion about what is real. Requiring transparency is a meaningful step that will help protect us all – ensuring that nonconsensual, harmful content can be removed quickly and providing a clear origin when our life’s work has been used.” – Dr. Moiya McTier, Senior Advisor

    Public Citizen

    “Public Citizen strongly believes that every person has a right to know when they are seeing, hearing or engaging with AI-generated content.  This is critical for the purposes of maintaining social trust in our society. A poll found that 79 percent of people polled worry the information they are seeing online is fake or meant to confuse. Senator Cantwell’s Content Origin Protection and Integrity from Edited and Deepfaked Media Act of 2025 is an important step towards safeguarding truth and trust in the AI age. This legislation addresses key issues surrounding deepfakes and AI-generated media by directing NIST to develop robust standards for detecting and labeling synthetic content and promotes provenance protections for AI generated content. If passed, this bill would promote online transparency and ethical AI use, which is desperately needed in today’s online ecosystem.” – Richard Anthony, Emerging Technologies Policy Advocate

    The Society of Composers & Lyricists (SCL), the Songwriters Guild of America (SGA), and Music Creators North America (MCNA)

    “The Society of Composers & Lyricists (SCL), the Songwriters Guild of America (SGA), and Music Creators North America (MCNA) applaud Senator Cantwell for initiating a crucial, beginning step towards addressing the myriad of existential threats to the American songwriter and composer community posed by unregulated generative artificial intelligence.  As the leading organizational representatives for America’s music creators, our independent groups represent many thousands of composers and songwriters, solely. We formulate our policy positions without undue outside influence from third parties, and we extend our enthusiastic support for introduction of the proposed bill.  The urgent need to require all generative AI users to deal transparently and fairly with the creative community cannot be overstated, and we look forward to working with Senator Cantwell’s office in addressing these and the many other challenges and opportunities provided by GenAI technologies in the immediate future.” – Ashley Irwin, SCL President & MCNA co-chair

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Global Economy – Global Barometers decline in April – KOF

    Source: KOF Economic Institute

    The Coincident Barometer decreases for the second consecutive month and returns to the level of September 2024. The fall in the Leading Barometer keeps the indicator generally slightly above 100 points, a tendency that has been observed since May 2024. However, the recent escalation in the trade tensions is not reflected in the data.

    In April, the Coincident and the Leading Global Barometers decrease 1.5 points and 1.7 points to 92.3 and 101.9 points, respectively. In both cases, the fall is mainly driven by the Western Hemisphere indicators. Europe is a distant second. In contrast, the contribution of the Asia, Pacific & Africa region to the variation in the global indicators is almost null this month.

    “Although the unexpectedly strong announcements by President Trump on what he called ‘US Liberation Day’ and the shockwaves that followed are not yet reflected in the Global Barometers – they reflect survey data collected in March – the downward momentum of both is clearly driven by lower assessments and sentiment in the US-dominated Western hemisphere. This does not bode well for the future direction of these two leading indicators of the global economy”, comments KOF Director Jan-Egbert Sturm the latest results.

    Coincident Barometer – regions and sectors

    The 1.5-point decrease in the Coincident Barometer in April results from negative contributions of -1.1 points from the Western Hemisphere, -0.3 points from Europe, and -0.1 points from the Asia, Pacific & Africa region. The Western Hemisphere reaches 91.4 points, its lowest level since December 2023, and is closing in on the indicator for the Asia, Pacific & Africa region, which continues to record the lowest level among the regional coincident indicators (90.9 points).

    Among the Coincident sector indicators, only Construction records an increase, while, Trade, Services, the indicator for Economy (aggregated business and consumer evaluations) and Industry decrease this month.

    Leading Barometer – regions and sectors

    In April, the Western Hemisphere contributes negatively with -1.6 points to the 1.7-point fall in the Leading Global Barometer. Europe contributes -0.2 points while the Asia, Pacific & Africa region makes a positive contribution of 0.1 points. With this result, only the Western Hemisphere is below 100 points, recording the lowest level among the regions, which has not happened since December 2023. The Leading Global Barometer leads the world economic growth rate cycle by three to six months on average.

    Among the Leading sector indicators, only Economy (aggregated business and consumer evaluations) makes a slight increase in April. The marked decline in the Trade sector stands out, taking the indicator to below the 100-point level for the first time since May of last year.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Tiffany Introduces World Trade Organization Withdrawal Measure

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tom Tiffany (WI-07)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Tom Tiffany (WI-07) introduced a joint resolution calling for the United States to formally withdraw from the World Trade Organization (WTO), a deeply flawed globalist institution that has repeatedly failed to uphold fair trade and undermined American economic interests. 

    “The WTO has repeatedly overlooked China’s unfair trade practices and human rights abuses, undermined American farmers and manufacturers, and eroded our national sovereignty,” said Congressman Tiffany. “American trade policies should be made by American officials who are elected by American voters and accountable to American workers, not dictated by unelected international bureaucrats in Geneva. It’s time to pursue a better approach to trade – one that puts American industry, jobs, and economic independence first.”  

    “It has been two decades since Congress last voted on whether to continue our membership in this deeply flawed organization,” Congressman Tiffany added. “The American people deserve to know if their elected officials stand with them, or with China’s allies in the WTO.”

    Background:

    Under current law, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) is required to submit an annual report to Congress by March 1st assessing the impact of U.S. participation in the WTO, including an analysis of the organization’s performance and value to American interests.   

    Following the release of that report, Congress is authorized to consider a joint resolution to withdraw the United States from the WTO. This opportunity occurs every five years, during a 90-day window, and can be initiated by any member of Congress. Congress previously debated similar resolutions in 2000 and 2005, in recognition of growing concerns about the WTO’s inability to enforce fair trade rules. No resolutions were introduced in 2010 and 2015. In 2020, withdrawal resolutions were introduced by Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-OR) and Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO), but neither were considered.   

    Since joining the WTO in 2001 after being granted Permanent Most Favored Nation trade status by the United States, Communist China has engaged in intellectual property theft and flooded global markets with heavily subsidized exports – all while the WTO looked the other way and allowed China to maintain trade barriers. 

    Just last month, the United States took the step of suspending payments to the WTO. National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett underscored the economic consequences of WTO membership, stating, that since China entered the WTO, “Real incomes declined by about $1,200 cumulatively.” 

    The full text of Rep. Tiffany’s resolution can be found here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murkowski Argues for Congressional Oversight of Tariffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski
    04.10.25
    Washington, DC – In a speech on the Senate floor today, U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) made her case that Congress needs to reassert its authority – starting with oversight of levying tariffs. In light of the recent trade policies enacted by the executive branch, Senator Murkowski spoke about the role that belongs to Congress, but emphasized that institution has slowly ceded its responsibility to the executive over the last century.
    Click here to watch the Senator’s remarks.
     
    Below is the text of Murkowski’s remarks as delivered.
    Thank you, Mr. President.
    Yesterday was a day that really captured the attention of the world. We’ve all been talking about tariffs for a little bit, but yesterday was the day that really brought the focus to what was going on here in the United States.
    At 12:01 in the morning on Wednesday, President Trump’s tariffs on the countries with which the United States has had the largest trade deficits went into effect on top of the 10% tariff rates that had previously applied to all countries, which had been initiated on Saturday, April 5. Just hours later, yesterday afternoon, the President announced a 90-day pause and lowered reciprocal tariffs to 10% and at the same time, announced that he was raising tariffs on China to 125% – now today, it looks like that number is closer to 145%.
    So, to say that this has been a dizzying week in Washington, DC is probably an understatement. Those of us that are following the markets, it’s been somewhat head-spinning. I’m not going to comment here on the floor today about the negotiating tactics of President Trump. I think he is legendary, and really world renowned, for his skills in bringing nations to the table. We’re seeing some of this play out literally as we speak. Other countries that have approached the administration to have discussions about tariffs. This is a unique kind of leverage, most certainly keeping those across the table off balance. But bringing the world potentially to the brink of a ruinous trade war certainly qualifies as a very unique point of leverage.
    The effort to try to reshore manufacturing here in this country is important, it’s admirable, and it’s something that we should all be working towards. But, I think there has been general agreement that the message from the administration has been decidedly mixed, which leads to further confusion among our trading partners and our allies. If nobody understands where the finish line is, it’s hard to reach it.
    I don’t want to focus my comments here this afternoon about these possible strategies and end results of these policies. But I want to focus more on the process of how these tariffs were imposed, because I believe it is yet another example of Congress choosing to cede its powers to the executive branch. And if the global implications of these tariffs have shown us nothing else, it’s that measures that are as important as these should be considered by the 535 elected individuals that are in tune with the American people, rather than vesting that with just one individual acting unilaterally.
    It’s under Article One, Section Eight of our United States Constitution that clearly enumerates that “Congress shall have the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises.” In other words, the power to levy tariffs rests with us here in the Congress.
    So why have we seen the executive take control over tariff rates? The answer lies in almost in a centuries-long series of bills that we have seen here that Congress has voluntarily enacted and laid down its authority for the executive to pick up.
    Following the disastrous Smoot Hawley Act of 1930 which plunged our nation deeper into the Great Depression, Congress passed the following legislation. First, it was the Reciprocal Trade Agreements Act of 1934, which authorized the president to make limited tariff rates without congressional review on top of negotiating bilateral, reciprocal trade agreements.
    Then, it was the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, which broadened the President’s trade powers to include multilateral trade agreements, while also allowing the president to unilaterally impose tariffs if imports could threaten national security.
    Then, the Trade Act of 1974, which allowed the president to protect U.S. workers by adjusting tariffs if foreign countries engaged in unfair trade practices.
    And then, just a few years later, it was the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977, which gives the president authorities to address declared emergencies if “unusual and extraordinary” threats exist to national security, foreign policy, or to the economy. So those powers include, you probably guessed it, the authority to regulate or prohibit imports.
    So, in his April 2 executive order, President Trump declared a national emergency because of a lack of reciprocity in our bilateral trade relationships and our trading partners’ economic policies that suppress domestic wages. He is authorized to do so under the National Emergencies Act of 1976, so I want to be clear about all of this: I know some people might not like it, but all of what he has done is clearly above board. The president is clearly within his powers to impose tariffs on our allies, like Mexico and Canada and the EU, just as much as he is with our adversaries, like China and Russia and Iran.
    President Trump, and President Biden before him, took this route because Congress has largely relegated tariff authority to the president through the laws that effectively cede to the executive.
    And my friends, it’s just one more example of Congress abdicating instead of legislating. In my time here, I have seen a troubling pattern, in both bodies, where the party that controls the White House seems all too comfortable relinquishing authority to the President, and then rubber stamping whatever policies the executive wants enshrined into law.
    Both Democrats and Republicans in Congress have deferred to the executive to call the shots, in my view, for far too long. Now we use the phrase around here a lot: “co-equal branches of government.” I use it all the time. But the reality is, Congress was created in Article One of the Constitution. We’re given far more authority than the executive. All you need to do is look in your handy dandy little pocket constitution. Ours is a lot longer.
    Look at the authorities that we have:
    Congress may impeach and remove a President and members of the judiciary;
    Congress can override a presidential veto of legislation;
    Congress appropriates the money that funds the operation of all branches of government; and
    It is Congress that again, needs to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts, and excises.
    We also say a lot around here that “business loves certainty.” I would suggest the country’s entire tariff regime being subject to the whims of one individual lends anything but certainty. And that’s why I have signed on to Senator Grassley and Senator Cantwell’s legislation. They call it the Trade Review Act of 2025, and it would reclaim this branch’s authority and duty to help manage tariffs as outlined in the U.S. Constitution.
    The bill requires notice to Congress of the imposition of, or increase, in any tariffs. It requires notice to Congress in 48 hours. With that congressional notification, it has to include an explanation of the president’s reasoning for imposing or raising the tariffs, as well as providing an analysis of potential impact on American businesses and consumers.
    And I can tell you, the Alaskans that I’m talking to back home would really like the last part of this: an analysis of how this is going to impact us.
    And then another provision within the Grassley-Cantwell Act is within 60 days, Congress would pass a joint resolution of approval on the new tariff. Otherwise, all new tariffs on imports would expire after that deadline.
    What this act effectively would do would be to reaffirm Congress’s role with regards to tariffs. It allows for a greater engagement, if you will, between the executive and the congressional branch. Allows for the debate, allows for that engagement, allows for that understanding.
    So, again, I’m hearing from folks all over back home, because they’re worried we already pay high costs for just about everything in Alaska. They’re worried about what it’s going to mean for groceries, for cars, for furniture, electronics, even coffee.
    We had a visit with a group of high school students on the on the steps yesterday, and they were from all over the state. We had some from Ketchikan, all the way out to King Cove, and out in the YK Delta. And the first question from one of the 16-year-old’s in that group was, “Can you tell me what’s going on with tariffs? How is this going to impact us?”
    I really appreciated that question from that 16-year-old who’s paying attention to what’s going on. He’s got questions. He’s here in Washington, DC, and he’s figuring he’s going to get some answers from his senator.
    Alaskans are facing consequences. They want to know they have a voice in it, and their voice is us. It’s their senator, it’s their representative. That’s our role here.
    Now it’s been suggested, and the president himself has issued a statement about this legislation: he’s indicated that he does not support it, and that he would veto it. That is absolutely within his power.
    But, we also have powers have powers here in Congress, and we need to assert them. And so, I would hope that this bill is maybe just the start, maybe just the toe in the water, where we’re starting to see Congress reassert its authority.
    Because if we don’t stand up for the institution, if we don’t stand up for the legislative branch of our government by debating this issue by holding votes, debating. Let’s debate this! Let’s have a vote on the Trade Review Act. Because if we just sit back, if we don’t assert our authority, we’ve only got ourselves to blame when we don’t like the direction that may be taken.
    The executive has slowly arrogated more and more power since the end of World War II, and it’s dramatically accelerated post-9/11. We here in Congress have stood by, and we’ve accepted it. We’ve said it’s okay. I think it’s time for Congress to reassert itself, whether it’s on tariffs, whether it’s on the power of appropriation, whether it’s overseeing the bodies, the agencies that we as a body have authorized.
    So, let’s legislate. Let’s remember our role is to legislate. We owe that to those that we represent, as well as to this institution, for the long-term good of the nation.
    And with that, Mr. President, I yield the floor.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Tuberville Joins Kudlow to Discuss How President Trump’s Tariffs Strategy is Working for Alabama

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    “We got a lot of panicans here in the Capitol, but at the end of the day, President Trump holds the cards.”
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined Larry Kudlow on Fox Business to discuss how President Trump’s tariffs strategy is working for Alabama workers and farmers.
    Read excerpts from the interview below or watch on YouTube or Rumble.

    KUDLOW: “Alabama Senator, Mr. Tommy Tuberville. Senator Tuberville, welcome, sir. So, you hear Mr. Trump […] brought everyone to the table. You know, I was talking to Senator Blackburn and others. They didn’t go to the Chinese table. They went to the United States [of] America Donald Trump table. So, it looks like Trump’s Art of the Deal was correct all along, Senator Tuberville. What do you make of it?”
    TUBERVILLE: “Well, exactly right, Larry. We got a lot of panicans here in the Capitol, but at the end of the day, President Trump holds the cards. All those cards are the American taxpayers, Larry. They’re behind President Trump. They understand what he’s trying to do. This is gonna be our last chance. We’ll never have a President like him again—simply for the fact that he knows what he’s doing. He’s a business guy, and he knows that we cannot continue to let China steal, defraud us, do everything possible to build their country up while we’re going south. We need to continue this. And again, we need to work with these people, you know, he’s got them standing in line at the White House. I’m sure that’s one of the reasons he has a 90-day pause [while] countries were just waiting to get in the door, but China’s not coming. I’m for just hammering China. Keep putting tariffs on them. Make them hurt because they are building right and left their military—one day they think they’re gonna take us on. We cannot allow that to happen, Larry. You know that.”
    KUDLOW: “Well, I think one of the offshoots of the discussion with China for Mister Trump. Look, 125% tariff. China’s not gonna be able to sell into our market. But selling all their subsidized manufacturing stuff with cheap wages, that’s their whole economy. So, we are just cutting them off at the knees. I guess what I’m saying is, Trump has completely outfoxed Xi Jinping. Trump is the master of the chessboard, not Xi.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Exactly. Larry, China sends daily 300 container ships that have thousands of containers on each ship, 300 a day to the United States of America with mostly junk. Okay? It should be made in the United States of America. Now they make some […] car parts and things like that. But at the end of the day, we can do that here. And President Trump knows we have to get manufacturing back. Bill Clinton [and] NAFTA almost put us under. I go through small towns, Larry, in Alabama, and manufacturing’s gone. Nobody lives there. The streets are closing down. If we don’t get it back now, it’ll never happen.”
    KUDLOW: “What are your folks in Alabama saying about the trade deal and all the discussion that goes with it?”
    TUBERVILLE: “Well, you got some car manufacturers that say, you know, ‘We got a problem,’ maybe a problem with powertrains coming in, you know, from some of the car dealers and manufacturers. But at the end of the day, the ones that I’m worried about, I’m worried about the bottom 50% of the people that actually work in this country, the people that make $50,000, $60,000 and below and our farmers. Larry, my god. If we don’t do something to help our farmers, it’s over. We lost 150,000 [farms] during the Biden administration. They’re having a terrible year this year with the weather—planting season is going on right now. They’re gonna have to replant [and] they’re gonna have a tough time even getting close to making a profit. So, he has to help with the commodity prices and President Trump will do that with these tariffs.”
    KUDLOW: “You know, we made a deal with the phase one trade deal with China. They’re supposed to have purchased a lot of farm commodities, they never did. They broke the deal. So now the farmers are in trouble. What do you—do you want federal spending for the farmers? Subsidies for the farmers? Tax cuts? Tell me what you want.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Well, what we did right before Christmas, Larry, they had a terrible last year, the year before that was really awful. Input costs under Biden were out of sight. You know, a cotton picker ten years ago was $600,000 dollars. Now it’s $1.5 million. It’s out of control. And it’s out of control because people across the world are taking advantage of us. We gave them $10 billion dollars—the farmers—right before Christmas to get a loan for this year’s crops. Now again, what did I just tell you, they planted their crops in the south, and they just got wiped out. We got 10, 15 inches of rain. And so, it’s gonna be tough on the farmers, but I’ll tell you they’re resilient. They’ll work hard. All we need to do is help them just a little bit, and they’ll be there.”
    KUDLOW: “Yes, sir. Yes, sir. Senator Tommy Tuberville, thank you for your wisdom as always.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Joins 178 Colleagues In Introducing Bill To Raise Federal Minimum Wage To $17 By 2030

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand

    U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand introduced the Raise the Wage Act alongside 32 of her colleagues in the Senate and 146 members of the House of Representatives. This bicameral legislation would raise the minimum wage to $17 for all workers and gradually eliminate subminimum wages for tipped workers, workers with disabilities, and youth workers.

    Last year, nearly one in four workers in the U.S. made less than $17 per hour. In New York, the minimum wage is currently $15.50 in most parts of the state and $16.50 on Long Island and in New York City, and Westchester. According to analysis by the Economic Policy Institute (EPI), passing the Raise the Wage Act would provide raises to 213,000 New Yorkers.

    “A living wage is critical to make sure that Americans can pay their bills, feed their families, and put a roof over their heads,” said Senator Gillibrand. “No one working full-time in the United States should be living in poverty. This legislation will help lift workers out of poverty, drive economic growth, and reduce income inequality, and I am committed to working with my colleagues to get it passed.”

    Today, the value of the current federal minimum wage – $7.25 per hour – is the lowest it has been since 1956 and has declined significantly since it was last increased in 2009. Black and Hispanic workers disproportionately feel the burden of these low wages as compared to their white counterparts, and that disparity is even worse for women of color. Nearly 40 percent of Hispanic women and 35 percent of Black women make less than $17 per hour.

    Gillibrand is joined on the Raise the Wage Act by 32 senators: Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    Additionally, over 85 organizations endorsed the legislation, including Service Employees International Union (SEIU), AFL-CIO, American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), Business for a Fair Minimum Wage, Communications Workers of America (CWA), Economic Policy Institute (EPI), Equal Pay Today, International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT), National Domestic Workers Alliance (NDWA), National Education Association (NEA), National Employment Law Project (NELP), The National Partnership for Women & Families, National Women’s Law Center (NWLC), One Fair Wage, Oxfam America, Patriotic Millionaires, UNITE HERE, United Autoworkers (UAW), United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW), United for Respect, and United Steelworkers (USW).

    The text of the bill can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Delfin Midstream Provides Corporate Update Related to Key Permits and Approvals for its Leading US Energy Infrastructure Project

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Recently received the first deepwater port license from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration to own, construct and operate an export liquefied natural gas project in the United States
    • Department of Energy approved a liquefied natural gas export permit extension, granting additional time to commence exports from offshore Louisiana.

    HOUSTON, April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Delfin Midstream Inc. (“Delfin”) today provided an update on key permits and approvals for its leading US based energy infrastructure project under development in Louisiana and offshore in the Gulf.

    On March 21, 2025, Delfin LNG LLC (“Delfin LNG”), a subsidiary of Delfin, received a license from the Maritime Administration (“MARAD”) authorizing Delfin LNG to own, construct, operate, and eventually decommission a deepwater port, to export Liquefied Natural Gas (“LNG”) from the United States.

    The license was issued pursuant to the Deepwater Port Act of 1974 and MARAD’s 2017 Record of Decision and is in accordance with President Trump’s Executive Order titled, “Unleashing American Energy,” signed January 20, 2025. The Delfin deepwater port project will be the first offshore LNG export project in the United States. The approval process involved MARAD and the U.S. Coast Guard working with approximately 15 cooperating federal agencies along with the States of Texas and Louisiana.

    On March 10, 2025, the Department of Energy approved an LNG export permit extension for Delfin LNG, granting additional time to commence exports from the project. The permit extension, which had been delayed under the prior administration, was announced by Secretary Wright in his opening remarks at CERAWeek in Houston.

    Dudley Poston, Delfin CEO, said: “The level of support by the President of the United States and his administration for the development of critical energy infrastructure has been truly remarkable. The Delfin floating LNG project has the potential to be not just the first LNG export deepwater port facility in the United States, but a significant economic contributor and job creator over the long-term. We would like to express our deep appreciation for the significant work undertaken by Sean Duffy, U.S. Secretary of Transportation, and Chris Wright, U.S. Secretary of Energy.”

    Added Poston, “We also share our appreciation for the governors of Louisiana and Texas for their significant involvement and contributions to this process. With clear vision and action, this administration has enabled a project that can significantly realign energy economics for the long-term benefit of the people of the United States.”

    Delfin is a leader in LNG export infrastructure utilizing low-cost floating LNG technology. The brownfield deepwater port that Delfin is developing requires minimal additional infrastructure investment to support up to three floating LNG vessels producing up to 13 million tonnes of LNG annually.

    About Delfin

    Delfin is a leading LNG export infrastructure development company utilizing low-cost Floating LNG technology solutions. Delfin is the parent company of Delfin LNG. Delfin LNG is a brownfield Deepwater Port requiring minimal additional infrastructure investment to support up to three FLNG Vessels producing up to 13.2 MTPA of LNG. Delfin purchased the UTOS pipeline, the largest natural gas pipeline in the Gulf of America. Delfin LNG received a positive Record of Decision from MARAD and approval from the Department of Energy for long-term exports of LNG to countries that do not have a Free Trade Agreement with the United States. Additional information is available at www.delfinmidstream.com.

    Public Relations
    Dan Gagnier
    Gagnier Communications
    Email: Delfin@gagnierfc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Magaziner Calls for Transparency on Congressional Stock Trading Surrounding Trump’s Tariff Announcement, Demands Ban be Considered by House

    Source: US Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Joe Neguse (CO-02), Mike Levin (CA-49), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), and David Min (CA-47) wrote a letter to Speaker Mike Johnson requesting that he call on every member of the House of Representatives to immediately file and release their Periodic Trading Reports (PTR) for any transactions conducted between April 2, 2025 and April 9, 2025 – the window in which President Donald Trump and his administration plunged the United States into a reckless trade war, issuing on-again, off-again tariffs on nearly 90 countries. Magaziner  also called on Speaker Johnson to immediately schedule a vote on legislation to ban stock trading for members of Congress.

    The lawmakers’ letter called attention to the fact that Members of Congress closest to the President, including many of whom met or were in his presence throughout the course of the week, were in positions to profit from the unstable changes in policy.

    “It would be unconscionable for any Member of Congress to use their personal position to benefit financially, especially in a time where Americans across the country are experiencing financial chaos,” wrote Magaziner, Neguse, Levin, Horsford, Min and Ocasio-Cortez. “Therefore, we respectfully request that you join us in requesting that Members of Congress immediately release their PTRs, rather than the customary 45-day deadline. The American people deserve to know if any representatives took advantage of their positions for personal gain.”

    The lawmakers’ request is the latest in a series of commonsense efforts to ensure Members of Congress are effectively representing the interests of the American people, not their own stock portfolios. Magaziner and his fellow co-signers have also championed a number of legislative and oversight measures that would require both representatives and their families to place investments, like individual stocks, in a blind trust during their tenure in Congress – effectively banning Members of Congress from trading individual stocks. 

    Magaziner is the lead sponsor of the TRUST in Congress Act, the bill with the most momentum in Congress to ban members of Congress from trading stocks, with 60 cosponsors. 

    The full text of the letter is available here and below: 

    Thursday, April 10th

    Dear Speaker Johnson,  

    We write to urge that you join us in requesting every Member of the House of Representatives immediately file and release their Periodic Trading Reports (PTR) for any transactions conducted between April 2, 2025, and April 9, 2025. The public has the right to know whether anyone in the Congress profited from the considerable market instability and economic chaos caused by President Trump and his administration over the past week. 

    As you are well aware, President Trump’s widespread imposition of tariffs across the world sent the market into a tailspin and placed the country’s economic stability at risk. In response to the outcry from Americans and our allies, President Trump paused some of these tariffs, opening a ripe opportunity for Members — particularly those close to the President — to personally profit from the change in policy. Over the past week, House Republicans met with President Trump at the White House, attended the National Republican Congressional Committee dinner (mere hours before pausing the tariffs), and were in regular communication with the President ahead of the vote on the budget reconciliation resolution. 

    It would be unconscionable for any Member of Congress to use their personal position to benefit financially, especially in a time where Americans across the country are experiencing financial chaos. Therefore, we urge you to join us in requesting that Members of Congress immediately release their PTRs, rather than the customary 45-day deadline. The American people deserve to know if any representatives took advantage of their positions for personal gain. Further, it is with that in mind that we reiterate our request for immediate consideration of legislation to ban members of Congress from trading stocks.

    We look forward to your prompt attention and action on this matter. 

    MIL OSI USA News –