NewzIntel.com

Category: Trade

  • MIL-OSI: Data Storage Corporation Schedules Fiscal 2024 Business Update Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MELVILLE, N.Y., March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Data Storage Corporation (Nasdaq: DTST) (“DSC” and the “Company”), a leading provider of multi-cloud hosting, managed cloud services, disaster recovery, cybersecurity, and IT automation, that integrates with AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud,  today announced that it plans to host a conference call at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Monday, March 31, 2025, to discuss the Company’s financial results for the 2024 fiscal year which ended December 31, 2024, as well as corporate progress and other developments.

    The conference call will be available via telephone by dialing toll-free 877-407-9219 for U.S. callers or for international callers +1-201-689-8852. A webcast of the call may be accessed at  DSC 2024 Fiscal Year Earnings Call or on the Company’s News & Events section of the website,  www.dtst.com/news-events.

    A webcast replay of the call will be available on the Company’s website (www.dtst.com/news-events) through September 30, 2025. A telephone replay of the call will be available approximately three hours following the call, through April 7, 2025, and can be accessed by dialing 877-660-6853 for U.S. callers or + 1-201-612-7415 for international callers and entering conference ID: 13751220. 

    About Data Storage Corporation
    Data Storage Corporation (Nasdaq: DTST) through its subsidiaries is a leading provider of multi-cloud hosting, fully managed cloud services, disaster recovery, cybersecurity, IT automation, and voice & data solutions. Recognizing that data migration is a critical step in transitioning from on-premises systems to the cloud, DSC provides comprehensive migration services to ensure seamless, secure, and efficient data transfer, minimizing downtime and optimizing performance.

    Through its owned and operated cloud platform, built on IBM Power Cloud infrastructure, DSC delivers high-performance, scalable, and secure cloud solutions with interoperability across its infrastructure partners, AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud.

    With data centers supporting its CloudFirst platform deployments across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, DSC provides mission-critical solutions to a diverse clientele, including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, educational institutions, and healthcare organizations.

    As a leader in the multi-billion-dollar cloud hosting and business continuity market, DTST is recognized for its expertise in cloud infrastructure, IT modernization, and data migration, enabling clients to transition to the cloud with confidence and operational continuity.

    For more information, please visit www.dtst.com or follow us on X @DataStorageCorp.

    Safe Harbor Provision
    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the safe harbor created thereby. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Statements preceded by, followed by or that otherwise include the words “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “projects,” “estimates,” “plans” and similar expressions or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “should,” “would,” “may” and “could” are generally forward-looking in nature and not historical facts, although not all forward-looking statements include the foregoing. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can provide no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s expectations and assumptions as of the date of this press release and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations and assumptions from those set forth or implied by any forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include the Company’s ability to grow its presence in Europe. These risks should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read together with the other cautionary statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it was initially made. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, changed circumstances or otherwise.

    Contact:
    Crescendo Communications, LLC
    212-671-1020
    DTST@crescendo-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Roper Technologies to acquire CentralReach

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SARASOTA, Fla., March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Roper Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: ROP) today announced that it has reached a definitive agreement to acquire CentralReach from Insight Partners for a net purchase price of approximately $1.65 billion, including a $200 million tax benefit resulting from the transaction. Roper expects CentralReach to deliver sustainable 20%+ organic revenue and EBITDA growth.

    CentralReach is a leading provider of cloud-native software enabling the workflow and administration of Applied Behavior Analysis (“ABA”) therapy. Over 200,000 professionals utilize CentralReach’s purpose-built solutions to help provide care for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (“ASD”) and related intellectual and developmental disabilities (“IDD”). ABA therapy providers rely on CentralReach’s comprehensive electronic medical records platform as their mission critical operating system, which includes highly specialized tools for client set-up, practice management, claims processing, care scheduling, clinical data collection, and service delivery, along with several AI-powered add-on modules.

    “CentralReach is a fantastic business with clear niche market leadership, mission critical and high ROI solutions, a high recurring revenue mix, and outstanding customer retention, which leads to strong organic revenue growth and excellent cash conversion,” said Neil Hunn, Roper’s President and CEO. “This acquisition is another example of Roper identifying a business that provides greater value creation for our shareholders. CentralReach meets each of our long-standing acquisition criteria, while also having a structurally faster organic growth profile and the ability to expand margins under Roper’s long-term ownership. We are excited to welcome the CentralReach team to the Roper family and look forward to partnering with the team to execute their strategy.”

    Acquisition financial outlook and financing

    CentralReach is expected to contribute approximately $175 million of revenue and $75 million of EBITDA for the twelve months ending June 30, 2026, and will be reported in Roper’s Application Software segment. Roper expects CentralReach to deliver sustainable 20%+ organic revenue and EBITDA growth.

    The transaction is expected to close in April/May 2025, subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions, and will be funded using Roper’s revolving credit facility. Additional information about CentralReach is available in the Investors section of Roper’s website (www.ropertech.com).

    Use of non-GAAP financial information

    Roper supplements its consolidated financial statements presented on a GAAP basis with certain non-GAAP financial information, including EBITDA, to provide investors with greater insight, increase transparency and allow for a more comprehensive understanding of the information used by management in its financial and operational decision-making. Roper defines EBITDA as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. Roper has not provided a reconciliation of the expected EBITDA contribution by CentralReach to the expected net income contribution by CentralReach for the twelve months ending June 30, 2026 because we are unable to quantify certain amounts that would be required to be included in CentralReach’s contribution to net income without unreasonable efforts. In addition, Roper believes such reconciliation would imply a degree of precision that would be confusing or misleading to investors. The non-GAAP financial measure disclosed by Roper in this press release should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, and the financial results prepared in accordance with GAAP and reconciliations from these results should be carefully evaluated.

    About Roper Technologies

    Roper Technologies is a constituent of the Nasdaq 100, S&P 500, and Fortune 1000. Roper has a proven, long-term track record of compounding cash flow and shareholder value. The Company operates market leading businesses that design and develop vertical software and technology enabled products for a variety of defensible niche markets. Roper utilizes a disciplined, analytical, and process-driven approach to redeploy its excess capital toward high-quality acquisitions. Additional information about Roper is available on the Company’s website at www.ropertech.com.

    About CentralReach

    CentralReach is a leading provider of Autism and IDD Care Software, providing a complete, end-to-end software and services platform that helps therapists who serve children and adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and related intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). With its roots in Applied Behavior Analysis, the company is revolutionizing how the lifelong journey of autism and IDD care is enabled at home, school, and work with powerful and intuitive solutions purpose-built for each care setting.

    Trusted by more than 200,000 professionals globally, CentralReach is committed to ongoing product advancement, market-leading industry expertise, world-class client satisfaction, and support of the autism and IDD community to propel autism and IDD care into a new era of excellence. For more information, please visit www.CentralReach.com.

    Contact information:
    Investor Relations
    941-556-2601
    investor-relations@ropertech.com

    The information provided in this press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These forward-looking statements may include, among others, statements regarding operating results, the success of our internal operating plans, and the prospects for newly acquired businesses to be integrated and contribute to future growth, profit and cash flow expectations. Forward-looking statements may be indicated by words or phrases such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “plans,” “expects,” “projects,” “should,” “will,” “believes,” “intends” and similar words and phrases. These statements reflect management’s current beliefs and are not guarantees of future performance. They involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Such risks and uncertainties include our ability to identify and complete acquisitions consistent with our business strategies, integrate acquisitions that have been completed, realize expected benefits and synergies from, and manage other risks associated with, acquired businesses, including obtaining any required regulatory approvals with respect thereto. We also face other general risks, including our ability to realize cost savings from our operating initiatives, general economic conditions and the conditions of the specific markets in which we operate, including risks related to labor shortages and rising interest rates, changes in foreign exchange rates, risks related to changing U.S. and foreign trade policies, including increased trade restrictions or tariffs, risks associated with our international operations, cybersecurity and data privacy risks, including litigation resulting therefrom, risks related to political instability, armed hostilities, incidents of terrorism, public health crises (such as the COVID-19 pandemic) or natural disasters, increased product liability and insurance costs, increased warranty exposure, future competition, changes in the supply of, or price for, parts and components, including as a result of inflation and potential supply chain constraints, environmental compliance costs and liabilities, risks and cost associated with litigation, potential write-offs of our substantial intangible assets, and risks associated with obtaining governmental approvals and maintaining regulatory compliance for new and existing products. Important risks may be discussed in current and subsequent filings with the SEC. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. These statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update publicly any of them in light of new information or future events.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) Signs EUR 40 Million Trade Finance Agreement to Strengthen Comoros’ Energy Security

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

    JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, March 24, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) (www.ITFC-IDB.org), the trade finance arm of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, signed a EUR 40 million trade finance agreement with the Union of Comoros to support the country’s energy sector. In line with the US$330 million three-year Framework Agreement signed in September 2024, this facility will enable Société Comorienne d’Hydrocarbures (SCH), as the executing agency, to import refined petroleum products and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), ensuring a steady and reliable energy supply for businesses and households.

    This financing is a crucial step in maintaining energy security, economic resilience, and social stability in the country by providing up to 100 percent of the country’s estimated 100,000 cubic meters of annual petroleum imports requirement.

    The agreement was signed by H.E. Ibrahim Mohamed Abdourazak, Minister of Finance, Budget, and Banking Sector of the Union of Comoros, and Abdihamid Abu, General Manager, Trade Finance, ITFC.

    Commenting on the signing, Abdihamid Abu, stated: “This financing reaffirms ITFC’s long-standing commitment to Comoros. By ensuring a stable energy supply, we are not only safeguarding essential services and industries but also driving broader economic growth, fostering resilience, and supporting the nation’s long-term development agenda.”

    Since 2008, ITFC has extended a total of US$657 million in financing to the Union of Comoros, with SCH serving as the executing agency in 26 trade finance operations. This latest agreement builds on that strong track record, further reinforcing ITFC’s strategic partnership with Comoros while supporting energy security (SDG 7), industrial growth (SDG 9), and economic stability (SDG 8).

    As part of its broader mission, ITFC remains dedicated to enhancing trade finance accessibility and strengthening economic resilience, in its member countries. By securing critical imports such as petroleum products, ITFC ensures that Comoros can sustain its economic momentum, protect jobs, and enhance the quality of life for its citizens.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: Duos Technologies Group Sets Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Earnings Call for Monday March 31, 2025, at 4:30 PM ET

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    JACKSONVILLE, Fla., March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Duos Technologies Group, Inc. (“Duos” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: DUOT) will hold a conference call on Monday, March 31, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. Eastern time to discuss its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024. Financial results will be issued via press release prior to the call.

    Duos management will host the conference call, followed by a question-and-answer period.

      Date: Monday, March 31, 2025  
      Time: 4:30 p.m. Eastern time (1:30 p.m. Pacific time)  
      U.S. dial-in: 877-407-3088  
      International dial-in: 201-389-0927  
      Confirmation: 13751912  
           

    Please call the conference telephone number 5-10 minutes prior to the start time of the conference call. An operator will register your name and organization.

    If you have any difficulty connecting with the conference call, please contact DUOT@duostech.com.

    The conference call will be broadcast live via telephone and available for online replay via the investor section of the Company’s website here.

    About Duos Technologies Group, Inc.
    Duos Technologies Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DUOT), based in Jacksonville, Florida, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, Duos Technologies, Inc., Duos Edge AI, Inc., and Duos Energy Corporation, designs, develops, deploys and operates intelligent technology solutions for Machine Vision and Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) applications including real-time analysis of fast-moving vehicles, Edge Data Centers and power consulting. For more information, visit www.duostech.com , www.duosedge.ai and www.duosenergycorp.com.

    Forward- Looking Statements

    This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, regarding, among other things our plans, strategies and prospects — both business and financial. Although we believe that our plans, intentions and expectations reflected in or suggested by these forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot assure you that we will achieve or realize these plans, intentions or expectations. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Many of the forward-looking statements contained in this news release may be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “should,” “planned,” “will,” “may,” “intend,” “estimated,” and “potential,” among others. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements we make in this news release include market conditions and those set forth in reports or documents that we file from time to time with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. We do not undertake or accept any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in our expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law. All forward-looking statements attributable to Duos Technologies Group, Inc. or a person acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary language.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/983252a1-554b-47c7-88a7-6ad25bd3a272

    This press release was published by a CLEAR® Verified individual.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Markets4you Wins Two Major Awards at FX Daily Awards 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ROAD TOWN, British Virgin Islands, March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Multi-asset broker Markets4you has announced its double win at the FX Daily Awards 2025, receiving Best Forex Broker APAC and Best Mobile App Trading Platform Global. These awards recognize Markets4you’s strong presence in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region and its commitment to providing traders with a secure, fast, and reliable trading platform—both on desktop and mobile.

    The APAC region remains one of the fastest-growing markets for online trading. With over 3 million users, Markets4you has helped traders access a wide range of markets, including forex, stocks, indices, and more. The company continues to expand its local support teams, provide expert market insights, and offer educational resources to help traders make informed decisions.

    Markets4you’s mobile app also received recognition for its speed, user-friendly design, and full trading features. It allows users to open and manage trades, deposit, withdraw, and monitor the markets from anywhere with ease.

    Ms. Marina Strauss, CEO of Markets4you, shared: “These awards show our dedication to creating the best possible trading experience for our users. Whether it’s through our platform or mobile app, we’re committed to helping traders achieve their goals with the right tools, support, and market access.”

    Markets4you remains focused on continuous improvement, innovation, and delivering real value to traders around the world.

    About Markets4you
    Markets4you is an award-winning, multi-asset trading platform offering contracts for difference (CFDs) in a wide range of markets across various assets, including forex, stocks, commodities, and indices. For 18 years, Markets4you has been trusted by over 3 million traders and 100,000 partners worldwide.

    The award-winning broker has attained over 35 industry awards, including:
    International Business Magazine Awards 2024
    ● Best Partnership Program Asia
    ● Best Global Online Trading Platform
    ● Best Global Mobile Trading App

    Global Forex Awards 2024
    ● Best Affiliate Program – Asia
    ● Most Transparent Broker – Global

    Forex4you and Markets4you are registered trademarks of E-Global Trade & Finance Group, Inc.

    For more information, users can visit www.markets4you.com.

    Contact

    Marketing Manager
    Yew Chong
    Markets4you
    yew.chong@eglobal-group.com 

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b649e647-b1ac-4971-b15d-9256f289d1d1

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British exports shine in African infrastructure and renewable energy deal

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 4

    Press release

    British exports shine in African infrastructure and renewable energy deal

    A partnership with UK Export Finance (UKEF) has enabled British firm Dints to secure a £12.5 million contract for infrastructure and renewable energy operations

    Image: Dints International

    • Dints International wins contract to supply Angolan infrastructure and renewable energy operations
    • Contract made possible in part thanks to UK government guarantee
    • Boosting exports plays a vital role in growing the economy, a key part of the Plan for Change

    A partnership with UK Export Finance (UKEF) has enabled British firm Dints to secure a £12.5 million contract as supplier to MCA’s infrastructure and renewable energy operations in Angola.  

    Established 18 years ago, Dints is a London-based project integrator bringing together buyers, suppliers, logistics providers and funding partners.    

    A loan guarantee issued by UKEF to Apple Bank means that the Portuguese contractor operating in Angola, MCA, can now access finance to purchase more than £12.5 million in equipment through Dints. This will create opportunities for UK manufacturers to supply goods and services to the project. 

    Dints will provide vehicles, plant and machinery to support infrastructure and renewable energy projects in Angola. UKEF’s support helps companies like Dints to grow the economy, delivering on the Plan for Change.   

    Recent partnerships with Dints have helped to generate over £21 million in UK exports to markets including Peru, Guinea, Côte d’Ivoire and Botswana. These projects support jobs across the UK supply chain, as Dints’ suppliers come from regions including Leicestershire, Yorkshire and Humber, Staffordshire, County Armagh, Cambridgeshire, and Hertfordshire.

    Gareth Thomas, Minister for Exports, said:  

    This deal opens a wealth of opportunities for UK businesses, helping to increase exports, boost jobs and grow the economy.

    As part of our Plan for Change, we are firmly backing businesses to export around the world and reach new markets, and this deal is a shining example of just that.

    Geoffrey de Mowbray, Dints’ CEO, said:  

    It has been a pleasure to work with MCA on this transaction. By bringing together UK and international suppliers with the support of UKEF, AF Capital and Apple Bank, suppliers are paid as if selling to their domestic markets while unlocking global opportunities. This approach makes UK exports more accessible as well as facilitating critical infrastructure and renewable energy projects and demonstrates the value of a coordinated, transparent export model in driving sustainable development.

    Tim Reid, CEO of UK Export Finance, said:

    By providing a loan guarantee to Dints’ overseas client, we’re not only securing a substantial export opportunity for British suppliers but also helping to transform lives in Angola through improved access to critical infrastructure and renewable electricity. This is exactly the kind of win-win outcome we strive to achieve at UK Export Finance.

    Manuel Couto Alves, Founder & Chairman of MCA, said: 

    At MCA, we recognise the critical role that strategic partnerships play in driving meaningful and sustainable change. As we continue to expand our infrastructure operations and deliver world-class projects in Angola, it is clear that collaboration with financial institutions such as UK Export Finance and trusted suppliers like Dints is essential in achieving the ambitious goals of sustainable development.

    Stephen Peal, Group MP of Yorpower, a supplier on the project, said: 

    This has been an exciting opportunity for YorPower from the start. It is an honour to be supporting the energy transition in Angola, which is a new territory for us. Working along Dints has proven to be an outstanding route to new territories and opportunities across the world. We are able to grow and develop our brand without the complication export would normally present, by dealing locally in the UK with the experts at Dints.

    Charlie Style, Business Development Manager at King Trailers, a supplier on the project, said: 

    King Trailers is proud to support Dints in delivering projects contributing to the sustainable development of communities in Angola. Our specialized transport solutions will play a key role in ensuring the safe and efficient movement of essential equipment, reinforcing our commitment to supporting global infrastructure and renewable energy projects.

    This collaboration was made possible through the support of UK Export Finance (UKEF), which plays a crucial role in championing British manufacturing. UKEF’s backing not only enables companies like King Trailers to secure international contracts but also drives innovation and strengthens the UK supply chain. By providing financial support and export credit guarantees, UKEF helps safeguard skilled jobs at King Trailers and across the wider UK manufacturing sector, ensuring long-term growth and competitiveness on the global stage.

    UKEF issued the guarantee through its Standard Buyer Loan Guarantee product. By helping buyers to purchase UK exports more easily, loans from or guaranteed by UKEF secure export contracts with good payment terms for British businesses – including small businesses likely to need payment upfront before they can deliver a contract.

    Contact

    Media enquiries:

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Government activities for the week 24 – 28 March 2025

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Monday, March 24, 2025

    On Monday, 24 March, the Deputy President Paul Mashatile will deliver the keynote address at the national World TB Day commemorative event and launch of the National End TB Campaign at Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre, Gamalakhe Township, KwaZulu-Natal.

    On Tuesday, 25 March, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George to lead the Group of Twenty (G20) Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group as part of South Africa’s Presidency of the G20. 

    On Wednesday, 26 March, South Africa hosts the second G20 Health Working Group Meeting in KwaZulu-Natal (26-28 March). 

    On Thursday, 27 March, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition is offering Basic Sewing Training Programme in Mthatha, Eastern Cape (17-28 March).

    Friday, 28 March, no confirmed events.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: ADB and Shriram Finance Sign Deal to Boost MSME and EV Financing in India

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    NEW DELHI, INDIA (24 March 2025) — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Shriram Finance Limited have signed a loan agreement for $150 million to boost access to finance for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in India with a focus on business loans and for financing electric vehicles (EVs) and low-emission commercial vehicles for business purposes. The loan will particularly benefit women-owned MSMEs and those in lagging states.

    The transaction is part of a total $306 million financing package led by ADB as the mandated lead arranger and bookrunner, which includes a loan of $150 million from Japan International Cooperation Agency and INR 500 million from Export-Import Bank of India.

    Shriram Finance Limited is the flagship company of the Shriram Group and is one of India’s largest non-banking financial companies specializing in commercial vehicle financing and MSME lending.

    “This project underscores ADB’s commitment to supporting financial inclusion and sustainable development in India while addressing the significant financing gap faced by MSMEs,” said ADB Country Director for India Mio Oka. “By partnering with Shriram Finance Limited, we will empower MSMEs, particularly women entrepreneurs, and accelerate the transition to electric mobility, which is crucial for reducing air pollution and achieving India’s climate goals.”

    MSMEs play a vital role in India’s economy, contributing 30% of India’s GDP and employing over 123 million people. However, they face significant challenges in accessing formal credit, with only a quarter of the MSME market being served by financial institutions. Women entrepreneurs face additional barriers due to social norms and limited access to collateral. ADB’s loan will help bridge this gap by enhancing Shriram Finance’s ability to provide tailored financial solutions to MSMEs, enabling them to reach underserved segments particularly in rural, semi-urban areas and in lagging states, and provide economic opportunities for women-owned MSMEs. ADB’s loan also supports the government’s initiatives to reduce air pollution through the adoption of EVs and low-emission (Bharat Stage-VI compliant) vehicles. The government’s EV30@30 initiative targets 30% of all new vehicle sales to be electric by 2030.

    “We value ADB’s support and funding, which will enable us to expand our financing to underserved MSMEs and promote the adoption of electric vehicles,” said Shriram Finance Limited Executive Vice Chairman Umesh Revankar. “Our continued partnership with ADB aligns with our corporate mission to drive inclusive growth and support India’s transition to a greener economy. This facility strengthens our commitment to financial inclusion and economic development.”

    Founded in 1979, Shriram Finance has 3,196 branches and 79,405 employees serving over 9 million customers, with assets under management of INR 2.54 trillion and strong operations in rural and semi-urban areas. It is well-positioned to support underserved MSMEs and drive the adoption of electric and low-emission vehicles.

    ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members—49 from the region.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: APEDA Facilitates Export of GI-Tagged Dalle Chilly from Sikkim to the Solomon Islands

    Source: Government of India (2)

    APEDA Facilitates Export of GI-Tagged Dalle Chilly from Sikkim to the Solomon Islands

    15,000 kg of Dalle Chilly Exported, Boosting Farmer Incomes in Sikkim

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 3:19PM by PIB Delhi

    The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, has successfully exported the first consignment of GI-Tagged Dalle Chilly from Sikkim to the Solomon Islands. This significant achievement underscores India’s growing prominence in the global organic agricultural market and highlights the increasing international demand for premium products from the North Eastern region.

    Dalle Chilly, also known as Fire Ball Chilly or Dalle Khursani, is renowned for its intense pungency, bright red color, and high nutritional value. Rich in vitamins A, C, and E, along with potassium, its Scoville Heat Units (SHU) range from 100,000 to 350,000, making it a sought-after spice for both culinary and medicinal applications.

    Through its extensive procurement network, Mevedir sourced approximately 15,000 kg of fresh Dalle Chilly from farmers and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in South Sikkim, including Tinkitam and Tarku regions. This consignment ensured farmers received a premium price of Rs 250-300 per kg, compared to the usual Rs 180-200 per kg, reaffirming the economic benefits of GI tagging and international trade.

    The processing of the consignment was undertaken at an APEDA-funded Integrated Pack House, developed by the Department of Horticulture, Sikkim. Of the total quantity, 9,000 kg was dehydrated, while 6,000 kg was preserved for further processing and export. The drying process yielded a 12.5% recovery rate, with 1,600 kg of fresh chillies processed into 200 kg of dried chillies for export.

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had earlier emphasized that the North East holds the key to India’s vision for a healthier and more sustainable future. He noted that the Geographical Indication (GI) tag is not just a recognition but a transformative opportunity for farmers and artisans, unlocking new markets and ensuring economic prosperity for the region.

    In 2020, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, granted the GI tag to Dalle Chilly, a unique and highly pungent variety grown in Sikkim. The North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation (NERAMAC) facilitated the GI registration, strengthening the identity and marketability of this specialty product.

    The Government of India has been actively promoting organic farming in the North East under the Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCD-NER) scheme, spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. This initiative has played a crucial role in enhancing the production and quality of organic Dalle Chilly, further boosting its appeal in international markets.

    APEDA, in collaboration with the Agriculture Department of Sikkim and its Regional Office in Guwahati, played a pivotal role in facilitating this export, ensuring local farmers and FPOs benefit from global market access.

    For this landmark export transaction, Mevedir, a leading agri-export enterprise committed to promoting organic produce from Sikkim, directly supplied the first shipment to the Solomon Islands. This marks a departure from previous indirect export routes and highlights the growing trust in India’s organic supply chain. The buyer from the Solomon Islands was introduced to the product through its international debut in Singapore in 2023 and subsequently sought direct sourcing from Mevedir.

    The export of Dalle Chilly to the Solomon Islands is expected to enhance Sikkim’s prominence on the global spice map, opening new avenues for international trade. With its ideal climate and fertile soil, Sikkim has the potential to emerge as a key player in the global spice industry. This successful transaction serves as a testament to the increasing global recognition of India’s organic agricultural products and its commitment to expanding agri-exports worldwide.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal/ Abhijith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas

    (Release ID: 2114373) Visitor Counter : 31

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PMG Reviews Mega Infrastructure Projects in Bihar, Odisha, and West Bengal

    Source: Government of India (2)

    PMG Reviews Mega Infrastructure Projects in Bihar, Odisha, and West Bengal

    23 issues across 19 major projects worth INR 63,858 crore reviewed

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 3:18PM by PIB Delhi

    The Project Monitoring Group (PMG) of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) conducted a comprehensive review of key infrastructure projects in Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha.

    Officials examined 23 issues across 19 major projects, with a total investment exceeding INR 63,858 crore. This included five projects under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, particularly focusing on Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) hospitals across all three states. These hospitals aim to provide essential healthcare benefits, including specialized treatments, medicines, and hospitalization, for insured citizens and their families.

    Additionally, projects related to the Ministries of Steel, Coal, Road Transport & Highways, Petroleum & Natural Gas, Railways, and Power were reviewed to identify and address bottlenecks, ensuring smooth execution. Notably, the Buxar Thermal Power Plant (1320 MW) project in Bihar, with an estimated cost of INR 10,439.09 crore, was a key focus of discussions.

    The meeting, chaired by Principal Economic Advisor, Shri Praveen Mahto, was attended by senior officials from Central Ministries, State Governments, and project proponents to address and resolve pressing issues affecting project execution. Shri Praveen Mahto reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the institutional framework for project monitoring and urged authorities to adopt a proactive approach in resolving pending issues. He emphasized the critical role of private stakeholders in leveraging the Project Monitoring Group (PMG) mechanism ((https://pmg.dpiit.gov.in)) to accelerate project implementation. Enhanced coordination between the Central Government, State Authorities, and the Private Sector remains key to ensuring the timely and efficient execution of these infrastructure projects.

    The DPIIT, through its Project Monitoring Group, will continue to facilitate high-impact infrastructure projects, ensuring their timely completion and contributing to India’s economic growth.

    *** 

    Abhishek Dayal/ Abhijith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas

    (Release ID: 2114371) Visitor Counter : 36

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs detects smuggling case involving suspected scheduled dried shark fins, electronic products and cigars by fishing vessel (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs detects smuggling case involving suspected scheduled dried shark fins, electronic products and cigars by fishing vessel  
    Customs mounted an anti-smuggling operation in Tuen Mun that night and spotted a suspicious fishing vessel berthing at a shore where suspected smuggling activities have taken place. Later, the vessel left Tuen Mun and headed towards the waters west of Hong Kong. Customs officers later intercepted the vessel near the waters around Tai O for inspection and found the batch of suspected smuggled goods inside a hidden compartment on the vessel.
     
    During the operation, four male crew members aged between 31 and 53, who were suspected to be connected with the case, were arrested.
     
    They were charged with one count of attempting to export unmanifested cargoes. They will appear at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts tomorrow (March 25).
     
    Being a government department primarily responsible for tackling smuggling activities, Customs has long been combating various smuggling activities on all fronts. Customs will keep up its enforcement action and continue to resolutely combat sea smuggling activities through proactive risk management and intelligence-based enforcement strategies, and carry out targeted anti-smuggling operations at suitable times to disrupt relevant crimes.
     
    Smuggling is a serious offence. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.
     
    Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance (Cap. 586), any person importing, exporting or possessing specimens of endangered species not in accordance with the Ordinance commits an offence and will be liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for 10 years upon conviction with the specimens forfeited.
     
    Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).
    Issued at HKT 18:15

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: REDUCING TRADE BARRIERS IN INDIAN TEXTILE INDUSTRY TO ENHANCE GLOBAL COMPETITIVENESS

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 12:11PM by PIB Delhi

    In order to increase the export potential, India has so far signed 14 Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and 6 Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) with various trading partners.

    Ministry of Textiles is implementing (Samarth) – Scheme for Capacity Building in Textiles Sector (SCBTS), with the objective to provide demand driven, placement oriented National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF) compliant skilling programmes to incentivize and supplement the efforts of the industry in creating jobs in the organized textile (excluding spinning & weaving) and related sectors and to provide skilling and skill-upgradation in the traditional sectors.

    This information was provided by THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR TEXTILES SHRI PABITRA MARGHERITA in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

    ***

    DHANYA SANAL K

    (Rajya Sabha US Q2552)

    (Release ID: 2114279) Visitor Counter : 62

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: XploraDEX Aims to Transform How Liquidity Works on The XRP Ledger – $XPL Token Presale Now Open!

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZURICH, March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a major leap for DeFi on the XRP Ledger, XploraDEX is introducing AI-powered liquidity automation, a game-changing solution designed to help traders, market makers, and liquidity providers unlock seamless trade execution with minimal slippage.

    The decentralized exchange, built natively on XRPL, is the first to deploy smart liquidity routing algorithms that automatically rebalance pools and adapt to volatile market conditions in real-time. Whether you’re trading large volumes or executing rapid-fire swaps, XploraDEX keeps liquidity deep, trading costs low, and profits maximized.

    And now, the gateway to this innovation, the $XPL Token is available to early adopters through its live presale Round.

    [GET XPL TOKENS NOW]

    The Problem: Fragmented Liquidity and Manual Management

    Traders on most DEX platforms face a frustrating set of problems:

    • Slippage on large trades due to low liquidity in pools
    • Delayed execution during market spikes
    • Poor capital efficiency for liquidity providers
    • Manual rebalancing and pool management

    XploraDEX solves these challenges with its self-adjusting liquidity system powered by AI.

    The XploraDEX Solution: Autonomous Liquidity Optimization

    By combining real-time blockchain data with AI-powered decision-making, XploraDEX introduces the following features:

    Smart Liquidity Routing – AI identifies the best paths across liquidity pools to ensure minimal slippage and optimized rates.

    Dynamic Pool Rebalancing – Liquidity shifts as needed based on trading patterns, demand, and volatility.

    Liquidity Farming Automation – Optimize yield generation through AI-managed staking strategies.

    Market Resilience – AI protects pools from becoming illiquid during periods of extreme volatility.

    This makes XploraDEX ideal for both active traders and passive liquidity providers looking to maximize efficiency and returns.

    BUY $XPL ON PRESALE

    The Role of $XPL Token

    The $XPL token plays a critical role in powering and governing this ecosystem:

    Access to AI Liquidity Tools and premium automation features

    Reduced Fees for traders and LPs using $XPL

    Staking & Reward Distribution from liquidity mining

    Voting Rights on pool incentives, AI strategy updates, and protocol improvements

    Holding $XPL = accessing the future of intelligent liquidity management on XRPL.

    $XPL Presale Is Live – Secure Your Position Early

    With XRPL growing rapidly as a hub for DeFi activity, XploraDEX is set to become the default platform for optimized, AI-managed liquidity solutions.

    Investors who join the presale now can:

    Buy $XPL token at discounted early-stage pricing: https://sale.xploradex.io

    Access exclusive LP and staking pools at launch

    Participate in community governance and platform direction.

    Don’t Miss Your Chance to Be Part of This Innovation

    Whether you’re a trader tired of slippage or a yield farmer looking to automate your strategy, XploraDEX is the intelligent solution DeFi on XRPL has been waiting for. And with the $XPL presale live now, early adopters can be first in line for everything this AI-powered platform has to offer.

    Secure your $XPL Tokens today: https://sale.xploradex.io

    AI + Liquidity = Smarter Trading. Welcome to XploraDEX.

    Stay connected and Join the XploraDEX AI Revolution

    Website | $XPL Token Presale | X | Telegram

    Contact:
    Oliver Muller
    oliver@xploradex.io
    contact@xploradex.io

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the XploraDEX. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.

    Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.

    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/dc72e8b5-d3ad-46d8-8ca2-d68e63d68a5e

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Television personality Ant Middleton banned as company director over unpaid taxes

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Television personality Ant Middleton banned as company director over unpaid taxes

    His company owed more than £1 million in corporation tax and VAT when it went into liquidation

    • Television personality and adventurer Ant Middleton has been banned as a director after his Sway and Starting Limited company failed to pay more than £1 million in tax 

    • In the same period, more than £4.5 million was paid into the company’s accounts, indicating it had enough income to pay the tax it owed in full 

    • His wife, Emilie Middleton, has also been disqualified as a company director for four years following investigations by the Insolvency Service 

    • The pair ended up owing their company almost £3 million at the time of liquidation due to an overdrawn director’s loan account 

    Television personality Ant Middleton has been banned as a director after his company failed to pay more than £1 million in tax. 

    The former SAS: Who Dares Wins chief instructor was the director of Sway and Starting Limited along with his wife, Emilie Middleton. The company, which was described as offering media representation services, was set up to manage income from his television and media work. 

    But both the directors failed to ensure the company paid more than £300,000 in VAT and over £800,000 in corporation tax between 2019 and 2022. 

    This was despite more than £4.5 million being paid into the company’s accounts from 2020 to 2022. 

    The pair had also taken out almost £3 million from the company in the form of a director’s loan account by the time the company went into liquidation in December 2022.  

    Ant Middleton later agreed to repay £300,000 of the director’s loan as a full and final settlement with the liquidator. 

    The Middletons, both 44 and with correspondence addresses in Chelmsford, Essex, have been banned as company directors for four years. 

    Dave Magrath, Director of Investigation and Enforcement Services at the Insolvency Service, said: 

    Companies not paying the tax they should deprives the government of the money it needs to pay for the country’s defence services, our NHS, schools and universities, and transport systems. 

    Ant and Emilie Middleton had legal and financial duties as directors to ensure their company paid the corporation tax and VAT it owed. Instead, they were taking millions of pounds out of the company at that time. 

    This disqualification should serve as a deterrent to other directors that if you do not pay your taxes while directing money elsewhere, you are at risk of being banned.

    Ant Middleton formed Sway and Starting in September 2014, with his wife becoming a director of the company in May 2019. 

    The company, previously known as Middleton Global Limited, failed to pay any of the £869,351 in corporation tax it owed between September 2019 and March 2021. 

    Sway and Starting also only paid £267,443 in VAT out of a total of £651,961 it owed between March 2020 and September 2022, leaving £384,518 unpaid. 

    Insolvency Service analysis of the company’s bank accounts showed that £4,592,200 was paid into the company between April 2020 and November 2022. 

    By the time of the company’s liquidation, the pair also owed Sway and Starting at least £2,961,745 through their director’s loan account. 

    The Secretary of State for Business and Trade accepted disqualification undertakings from Ant and Emilie Middleton, and their bans started on Monday 24 March and Wednesday 19 March respectively. 

    It prevents them from being involved in the promotion, formation or management of a company, without the permission of the court. 

    Further information

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Women leaders gather in Leeds to help unlock SME business growth

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Women leaders gather in Leeds to help unlock SME business growth

    Female entrepreneurs, senior industry representatives and local leaders came together at the UKEF ‘Northern Women in Business’ reception in Leeds.

    Laura Murray, HSBC UK; Roxanne Goodman, Female Founder Finance; Helen Gibson MBE; Heba Bevan, Utterberry; Marie Hall, UKEF. Credit: Neil Spence.

    • Hosted by UK Export Finance, the event focused on breaking down barriers for women in business and encouraging more women-led businesses to take up international trade opportunities.

    • UKEF’s financing support for small businesses was worth over £570 million last year, while an independent review estimates around a quarter of a trillion pounds could be added to the UK economy if women received more business investment opportunities.

    Over 100 female entrepreneurs, banking representatives and government officials came together last night to celebrate the success of British businesswomen and to explore ways of reducing financial barriers for women-led firms seeking to grow their operations and export.

    Hosted at The Studio in Leeds by government department UK Export Finance (UKEF), the event welcomed speakers from prominent groups Female Founder Finance and the Invest in Women Taskforce.

    UKEF is a government department which helps businesses to export by offering financing guarantees and insurance – support which helps companies to fill their order-books, invest in growth and create wealth.

    In the 2023-24 financial year, UKEF’s backing for businesses contributed £3.3 billion to the UK economy and supported up to 41,000 jobs across the country. The department has set an objective to support more women-led businesses as part of its business plan. 

    While this is good news for firms across the country, according to the Rose Review, £250 billion could be added to the UK economy if women matched men in receiving business investment.

    Gareth Thomas, Minister for Exports, said: 

    One of the priorities for this government is to break down barriers that women in business face, which includes access to finance.

    UK Export Finance is working alongside the broker Female Founder Finance to ensure its suite of services reach more female business owners so they can secure new investment opportunities and grow their operations.

    UKEF recently signed a partnership with Female Founder Finance. Together, they will streamline the process for referring eligible businesses into one another’s financing programmes, therefore reducing missed opportunities for women owners.

    Roxanne Goodman, Founder of Female Founder Finance, added:

    The UKEF and Female Founder Finance partnership is a game-changer for women-led businesses looking to scale globally. Events like this reception are crucial for connecting female founders with the trade finance solutions they need to seize international opportunities.

    By breaking down barriers to funding, we’re empowering more women to succeed in international trade.

    UKEF’s support for women-led businesses complements the government’s priorities for economic growth and breaking down barriers for businesses across the UK as part of its Plan for Change.  

    The event comes after the Chancellor’s backing for the Invest in Women Taskforce – which aims to create one of the world’s largest investment funding pools for female founders – as part of this government’s mission to grow the economy.

    Contact

    Media enquiries:

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: RECOMMENDATION on the draft Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Agreement between the European Union, Iceland, the Principality of Liechtenstein and the Kingdom of Norway on an EEA Financial Mechanism for the period May 2021 – April 2028, the Agreement between the Kingdom of Norway and the European Union on a Norwegian Financial Mechanism for the period May 2021 – April 2028, the Additional Protocol to the Agreement between the European Economic Community and the Kingdom of Norway and the Additional Protocol to the Agreement between the European Economic Community and Iceland – A10-0036/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    DRAFT EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION

    on the draft Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the Agreement between the European Union, Iceland, the Principality of Liechtenstein and the Kingdom of Norway on an EEA Financial Mechanism for the period May 2021 – April 2028, the Agreement between the Kingdom of Norway and the European Union on a Norwegian Financial Mechanism for the period May 2021 – April 2028, the Additional Protocol to the Agreement between the European Economic Community and the Kingdom of Norway and the Additional Protocol to the Agreement between the European Economic Community and Iceland

    (10005/2024 – C10‑0103/2024 – 2024/0052(NLE))

    (Consent)

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to the draft Council decision (10005/2024),

    – having regard to the draft Agreement between the European Union, Iceland, the Principality of Liechtenstein and the Kingdom of Norway on an EEA Financial Mechanism for the period May 2021–April 2028 (10057/2024),

    – having regard to the draft Agreement between the Kingdom of Norway and the European Union on a Norwegian Financial Mechanism for the period May 2021–April 2028 (10146/2024),

    – having regard to the draft Additional Protocol to the Agreement between the European Economic Community and the Kingdom of Norway (10149/2024),

     – having regard to the draft Additional Protocol to the Agreement between the European Economic Community and Iceland (10148/2024),

    – having regard to the request for consent submitted by the Council in accordance with Article 217 and Article 218(6), second subparagraph, point (a), of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (C10-0103/2024),

    – having regard to Rule 107(1) and (4), and Rule 117(7) of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to the recommendation of the Committee on International Trade (A10-0036/2025),

    1. Gives its consent to the conclusion of the agreements and protocols;

    2. Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the governments and parliaments of the Member States, Iceland, the Principality of Liechtenstein and the Kingdom of Norway.

    EXPLANATORY STATEMENT

    The European Economic Area (EEA) Agreement allows Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway to participate fully in the single market. As provided for in the Agreement, and since its entry into force in 1994, these three countries have therefore financially contributed to the alleviation of economic and social disparities in the EEA. In addition, Norway has contributed through a separate financial mechanism.

    As the most recent financial mechanisms expired in 2021, the Commission opened negotiations in 2022 with Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway on an agreement on their future financial contributions. In parallel, a review of the Protocols to the Agreements between the European Economic Community (EEC) and Iceland and Norway related to imports into the European Union (EU) of certain fish and fishery products, was opened as provided for in the revision clauses of the Free Trade Agreements with these countries. 

    The negotiations were concluded at negotiators’ level, with the initiating in November 2023 of:

    – an Agreement between the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway on an EEA Financial Mechanism for the period May 2021 – April 2028;

    – an Agreement between Norway and the EU on a Norwegian Financial Mechanism for the period May 2021 – April 2028;

    – an Additional Protocol to the Agreement between the EEC and Norway; and

    – an Additional Protocol to the Agreement between the EEC and Iceland.

    The EEA Financial Mechanism Agreement and the Norway Agreement will together provide a financial contribution to economic and social cohesion in the EEA of EUR 3.268 billion for the period May 2021 – April 2028. The Protocols with Iceland and Norway will provide for new concessions for the period May 2021 – April 2028. Flexibility will be provided concerning the carry-over of unexhausted quotas at the end of the period. Norway will also renew the fish transit arrangement for EU vessels landing catches in its territory.

    The rapporteur raises its concerns regarding the limits and imbalances of the fisheries-related Protocol between the EEC and Norway, but nonetheless gives the consent of the conclusion of the four arrangements as one package.

    The rapporteur calls on the Commission to take the concerns raised seriously and address the imbalances in the EU fishing sector adequately and swiftly.

    On 25 June 2024, the Council adopted the Decision on the signing, on behalf of the EU, and on the provisional application of the Agreements and Protocols.

     

     

    ANNEX: ENTITIES OR PERSONS FROM WHOM THE RAPPORTEUR HAS RECEIVED INPUT

    Pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure, the rapporteur declares that she received input from the following entities or persons in the preparation of the report, prior to the adoption thereof in committee:

    Entity and/or person

    Ministry of Regional Development and European Union Funds of Republic of Croatia

    Mission of Norway to the European Union

    The list above is drawn up under the exclusive responsibility of the rapporteur.

    Where natural persons are identified in the list by their name, by their function or by both, the rapporteur declares that she has submitted to the concerned natural persons the European Parliament’s Data Protection Notice No 484 (https://www.europarl.europa.eu/data-protect/index.do), which sets out the conditions applicable to the processing of their personal data and the rights linked to that processing.

     

     

    PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE RESPONSIBLE

    Title

    Agreement between the European Union, Iceland, the Principality of Liechtenstein and the Kingdom of Norway on an EEA Financial Mechanism for the period May 2021 – April 2028, the Agreement between the Kingdom of Norway and the European Union on a Norwegian Financial Mechanism for the period May 2021 – April 2028, the Additional Protocol to the Agreement between the European Economic Community and the Kingdom of Norway and the Additional Protocol to the Agreement between the European Economic Community and Iceland

    References

    10005/2024 – C10-0103/2024 – 2024/0052(NLE)

    Date of consultation or request for consent

    18.9.2024

     

     

     

    Committee(s) responsible

    INTA

     

     

     

    Committees asked for opinions

     Date announced in plenary

    PECH

    7.10.2024

     

     

     

    Not delivering opinions

     Date of decision

    PECH

    19.2.2025

     

     

     

    Rapporteurs

     Date appointed

    Željana Zovko

    30.9.2024

     

     

     

    Discussed in committee

    30.1.2025

    20.2.2025

     

     

    Date adopted

    20.3.2025

     

     

     

    Result of final vote

    +:

    –:

    0:

    33

    7

    0

    Members present for the final vote

    Christophe Bay, Brando Benifei, Anna Bryłka, Udo Bullmann, Benoit Cassart, Markéta Gregorová, Bart Groothuis, Céline Imart, Karin Karlsbro, Bernd Lange, Ilia Lazarov, Thierry Mariani, Javier Moreno Sánchez, Ştefan Muşoiu, Daniele Polato, Majdouline Sbai, Lukas Sieper, Dominik Tarczyński, Francesco Torselli, Kathleen Van Brempt, Jörgen Warborn, Iuliu Winkler, Bogdan Andrzej Zdrojewski, Juan Ignacio Zoido Álvarez

    Substitutes present for the final vote

    Mika Aaltola, Nicolas Bay, Markus Buchheit, João Cotrim De Figueiredo, Danilo Della Valle, Borja Giménez Larraz, Vicent Marzà Ibáñez, Marina Mesure, Martin Schirdewan, Kris Van Dijck

    Members under Rule 216(7) present for the final vote

    Hildegard Bentele, Mélanie Disdier, Niels Geuking, Chloé Ridel, Romana Tomc, Matthieu Valet

    Date tabled

    21.3.2025

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2018/196 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 7 February 2018 on additional customs duties on imports of certain products originating in the United States of America – A10-0034/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    DRAFT EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION

    on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council  amending Regulation (EU) 2018/196 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 7 February 2018 on additional customs duties on imports of certain products originating in the United States of America

    (COM(2025)0027 – C10‑0007/2025 – 2025/0012(COD))

    (Ordinary legislative procedure: first reading)

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to the Commission proposal to Parliament and the Council (COM(2025)0027),

    – having regard to Article 294(2) and Article 207(2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C10‑0007/2025),

    – having regard to Article 294(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

    – having regard to Rule 60 of its Rules of Procedure,

    – having regard to the report of the Committee on International Trade (A10-0034/2025),

    1. Adopts its position at first reading, taking over the Commission proposal;

    2. Calls on the Commission to refer the matter to Parliament again if it replaces, substantially amends or intends to substantially amend its proposal;

    3. Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments.

    EXPLANATORY STATEMENT

    Despite the title, this legislative proposal does not relate to the current trade tension between the US administration and the EU. The objective of the proposal is simply to introduce a limited, targeted and technical amendment to Regulation (EU) 2018/196 by including a de minimis threshold for the imposition of retaliation against the United Stated for a WTO case the US lost in 2003.

     

    The case relates to the United States’ Continued Dumping and Subsidy Offset Act of 2000 (‘CDSOA’, or the Byrd Amendment). The CDSOA mandates the yearly distribution of the anti-dumping and countervailing duties collected during the previous fiscal year to US companies. The CDSOA was found incompatible with the United States’ WTO obligations in January 2003.

     

    Given that the United States failed to bring itself into compliance with its obligations under the WTO agreements, the Union was authorised to impose an additional import duty on a list of US products covering on a yearly basis a total value of trade not exceeding the amount of 72 % of the CDSOA disbursement from duties collected on imports from the Union. The Byrd Amendment was repealed in 2006, but the US created a transitional period whereby disbursements would continue as long as they concerned duties collected before 1 October 2007.

     

    In 2024 the amount of the EU authorised retaliation was negligible (USD 34,98) but the Commission was still required to adopt a delegated regulation to set the rate of duty to 0%. Retrieving USD 34,98 would have had no trade impact and would have imposed a disproportionate administrative cost to the Union. INTA did not oppose the proposed Delegated Act.

     

    It is expected that in the future the authorised level of retaliation will continue to remain low and will go towards exhaustion. For that reason, the Commission suggests setting a threshold at USD 30 000 of disbursements made by US authorities in relation to Union imports in one fiscal year (which would correspond to an authorised level of retaliation of USD 21 600) under which no EU duties would apply. In the unlikely event that sums disbursed by the US exceeded the USD 30 000 sum, the EU would be entitled to apply retaliation. 

     

    The legal basis for this Regulation Amendment is Article 207(2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. This limited amendment to the basic act should be adopted by the end of April, so as to avoid initiating the yearly Delegated Act procedure.

     

    Given the limited, targeted and technical nature of the amendment in question, the Chair, as Standing Rapporteur for trade relations with the US, suggested that the proposal be adopted via the Simplified Procedure under Rule 52 (1) of the Rules of Procedure (approval without amendments).

     

     

    ANNEX: ENTITIES OR PERSONS FROM WHOM THE RAPPORTEUR HAS RECEIVED INPUT

    The rapporteur declares under his exclusive responsibility that he did not receive input from any entity or person to be mentioned in this Annex pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure.

     

     

    PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE RESPONSIBLE

    Title

    Additional customs duties on imports of certain products originating in the United States of America

    References

    COM(2025)0027 – C10-0007/2025 – 2025/0012(COD)

    Date submitted to Parliament

    3.2.2025

     

     

     

    Committee(s) responsible

    INTA

     

     

     

    Rapporteurs

     Date appointed

    Bernd Lange

    19.2.2025

     

     

     

    Simplified procedure – date of decision

    19.2.2025

    Discussed in committee

    19.3.2025

     

     

     

    Date adopted

    19.3.2025

     

     

     

    Date tabled

    21.3.2025

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish Anti-Illicit Trade Group relaunches to combat counterfeit crime

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Scottish Anti-Illicit Trade Group relaunches to combat counterfeit crime

    The Scottish Anti-Illicit Trade Group (SAITG) has relaunched this month, with the aim of combating counterfeiting and intellectual property crime in Scotland.

    Supported by the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO), the group brings together law enforcement, government and businesses to strengthen Scotland’s fight against this illicit trade.

    According to IPO research, almost one in three of those asked (29%) across the UK have purchased counterfeit goods in the past. Almost one in five (19%) said they purchase them often, sometimes or on an occasional basis. For 2021, the overall estimated value of imported counterfeit goods into the United Kingdom was over £7 billion.

    The group will focus on developing best practice and enhancing collective strategies to tackle the supply of counterfeit goods across Scotland. They will form a coordinated response to protect Scottish products, businesses and consumers from the threat of IP crime.

    It brings together members including the Scotch Whisky Association, Police Scotland, Trading Standards, The Wine & Spirit Trade Association and The Anti-Counterfeiting Group.

    Together, they will create a forum for distinct industry areas to share insight, intelligence and provide training and support for law enforcement agencies.

    The group’s work will also help build a greater understanding among the wider public of the harms this trade causes, emphasising that counterfeiting is anything but a victimless crime.

    The IPO’s Deputy Director of Enforcement Miles Rees stressed the importance of collaboration:

    We are pleased to support the re-launch of the Scottish Anti-Illicit Trade Group, which marks an important moment in tackling this significant threat to businesses and consumers in Scotland. Counterfeit goods not only harm those using them, but also cause wider harms to society, our economy and communities. Government, industry and law enforcement all have a crucial role to play in working together to combat counterfeiting and piracy, and the group represents a vital forum, helping drive action together.

    Rachel Jones, newly appointed Chair of the Scottish Anti-Illicit Trade Group and founder of Snapdragon, said:

    Counterfeiting is not a victimless crime. It is the second largest source of criminal income in the world, after drugs. I’m very honoured to chair this group as we bring together key partners to protect Scotland’s heritage brands and consumers.

    Fiona Richardson, Chief Officer for Trading Standards Scotland, said:

    Illicit trade is a priority for Trading Standards Scotland and the team regularly looks to undertake actions against those selling counterfeit goods. These actions are aimed at protecting consumers and legitimate businesses by preventing the sale of counterfeit products throughout Scotland.

    Detective Chief Superintendent Dave Ferry of Police Scotland emphasised the serious nature of illicit trade:

    People may believe this type of criminality to be victimless. The reality is that illicit trade funds serious organised crime, undermines legitimate businesses, puts jobs at risk and causes harm in our communities as the profits fund other illegal activities.

    Alan Park, Director of Legal Affairs at the Scotch Whisky Association, highlighted the importance of protecting Scotland’s premium products:

    Food and drink products strongly associated with their origin, like Scotch Whisky, carry a significant reputation based on their quality, authenticity and generations of investment. Those who attempt to take fraudulent advantage of that reputation will always face strong action, and the formation of this group is a significant step to help serve a strong message that this illegal activity won’t be tolerated.

    Members of the public can report suspected counterfeit goods to Police Scotland by calling 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNECE advances implementation of digital data exchange along SPECA corridors

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    Increased use of digital solutions developed by UNECE’s subsidiary, intergovernmental body – the United Nations Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business (UN/CEFACT) – can enhance the sustainability and resilience of supply chains and strengthen global connectivity. Data mapping and alignment to the UN/CEFACT standards allow for a common semantic foundation for data exchange among the different port or railway information systems and other modes of transport.

    The benefits include reducing economic costs, enabling seamless data interchange among modes of transport and sectors in the supply chain, using the UN standards as a common semantic foundation for cross-border, multimodal, and cross-sectoral interoperability, simplification and automation of business processes, and raising business competitiveness.

    As part of the implementation the roadmap for digitalization of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, which was adopted by States participating in the United Nations Special Programme for the Economies of Central Asia (SPECA) in November 2023, UNECE recently organized two capacity-building seminars in Turkmenistan to streamline efforts to digitalize transport and supply chains along the Trans-Caspian and other corridors in the region. 

    In 2023, the total cargo transported via the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor increased by 86% in 2023, reaching 2.8 million tons, up from 1.5 million tons in 2022. According to a World Bank study, with targeted investments and policy reforms, the Middle Corridor has the potential to triple its trade volumes by 2030, reaching 11 million tons, and to reduce travel time by half. ​

    The first seminar focused on port-to-port data exchange in the Trans-Caspian Corridor, notably in Baku-Aktau and Baku-Turkmenbashi, to align this data exchange to the UN/CEFACT standards and Multimodal Transport Reference Data Model (MMT RDM). Baku and Aktau ports are already exchanging data on cargo, and the ports of Baku and Turkmenbashi have an agreement to exchange data.                       

    The seminar participants requested UNECE, the Governments of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan and the development partners to support the effort to align the data exchange to the UN/CEFACT standards in the context of the Trans-Caspian Digitalization Roadmap. In addition to supporting the digital exchange of information among the Caspian ports of Baku, Aktau, and Turkmenbashi, one of the recommendations of the seminar was to invite other ports along the Trans-Caspian Corridor – Kuryk, Poti, Batumi, Odessa, Constanta, Varna, Burgas, and Istanbul – to align to the UN/CEFACT standards.

    Under the SPECA Chairmanship of Turkmenistan in 2025, and with participation of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), the Organisation for Cooperation of Railways (OSJD), the railway agencies of Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Iran, the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), and Eurasian Development Bank, the second seminar focused on a pilot project to develop and use an electronic equivalent of the SMGS railway consignment note along the Kazakhstan–Turkmenistan–Iran (KTI) railway corridor.

    This pilot project would serve as a foundation for further development of a digital corridor along the KTI railway corridor, using the semantic standards and Multimodal Transport Reference Data Model (MMT RDM) of UN/CEFACT as a key reference for intermodal interoperability of data and document exchange.

    Representatives of UNECE, UNESCAP, and the railway agencies of Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Iran discussed the possibilities for such a project in cooperation with the three governments and various stakeholders, including ECO, the Permanent Secretariat of the Intergovernmental Commission of the Transport Corridor Europe-Caucasus-Central Asia (PS IGC TRACECA) and other development partners.

    The participants recommended that the railways and business community of the KTI and SPECA participating States promote the digital transformation of documents accompanying goods in the KTI corridor, in alignment with the UN/CEFACT standards to digitalize railway documents accompanying goods.

    Finally, the 20th session of the SPECA Working Group on Trade held in Ashgabat reviewed national and regional plans and strategies of the SPECA participating States for trade facilitation and sustainable development.

    The participants aimed to identify priority actions on which the SPECA Working Group on Trade could work in the coming several years and focused on deliverables, such as: 

    • Collaboration among SPECA participating States in the WTO process
    • Progress in the implementation of the SPECA Trade Facilitation Strategy and related roadmap
    • Progress in the implementation of the Principles for Sustainable Trade in the subregion
    • Studies and recommendations on regulatory and procedural non-tariff barriers to trade, and
    • Digitalization of data and document exchange in multimodal transport and trade using UN standards.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Prosafe SE: Operational update – February 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    24 March – Fleet utilisation for February 2025 was 57 per cent.  

    Safe Notos, Safe Zephyrus and Safe Concordia operated at full capacity during this period, achieving 100 per cent utilisation. Safe Eurus achieved a utilisation rate of 98 per cent.

    Safe Caledonia has commenced reactivation activities in Scapa Flow, UK, and will mobilise to the Captain Field, UK, within June 2025. 

    Safe Boreas is in Norway preparing for relocation in Q2 2025 for a contract in Australia commencing between mid-November 2025 and mid-February 2026.  

    The sale of Safe Concordia is completed, and the vessel was transferred to the new owner on March 13, 2025.   

    Safe Scandinavia remains laid up in Norway.  

    Prosafe is a leading owner and operator of semi-submersible accommodation vessels. The company is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange with ticker code PRS. For more information, please refer to https://www.prosafe.com  

    For further information, please contact:  

    Terje Askvig, CEO 

    Phone: +47 952 03 886 

    Reese McNeel, CFO 
    Phone: +47 415 08 186 
     
    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: How we made workplace justice simpler, faster and more accessible for everyone

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    How we made workplace justice simpler, faster and more accessible for everyone

    Employment Tribunals play a vital role in the UK justice system, resolving disputes between employers and employees.

    These disputes may be on issues such as: 

    • unfair dismissal 

    • discrimination 

    • redundancy 

    • whistleblowing claims 

    • breach of contract 

    Hearings involve evidence, witness testimony and legal arguments and are decided upon by a judge sitting alone, or by a panel made up of: 

    • a judge 

    • a panel member with a worker’s background 

    • a panel member with an employer’s background 

    Before the Reform Programme, there were a number of issues with the process: 

    • Panel members and HMCTS teams had to manually handle, transport and store high numbers of paper documents 

    • Transportation of this paper had environmental impacts and caused bottlenecks and delays to cases 

    • Forms weren’t intuitive or supportive, increasing the risk of human error 

    • Claimants and defendants often needed to travel to buildings for hearings 

    • Judges spent time making lower-level decisions, taking them away from complex matters that required them 

    Our modernisation programme aimed to transform an outdated paper-based system that was struggling to meet modern expectations into an efficient, user-friendly service fit for the 21st century. 

    Benefits 

    Since July 2022, more than 17,500 people have made digital claims using the modernised service. These people benefitted from:

    • an end-to-end digital journey for submitting and managing claims 

    • supportive, intuitive online forms and simplified procedures with reduced legal jargon, reducing the opportunity for errors 

    • the flexibility of real-time case tracking and 24/7 access to case files 

    • an increase in remote hearings which have reduced the need to spend time travelling, as well as additional environmental benefits  

    • faster progression of their case with streamlined administrative processes 

    Changes to regulations also meant legal officers could be appointed to support judges with certain functions which they could in turn do more effectively through improved technology. This step ensured more efficient use of judicial time for more complex matters. 

    Our digital transformation 

    The journey to reform Employment Tribunals began in 2021. Public consultation showed strong support for modernisation and we began the process by developing and testing the new digital claim form (ET1). 

    This would be the foundation of the modernised services, giving claimants (or their representatives) an accessible, intuitive form that they could access via GOV.UK and complete and submit online at any time. 

    We then gave users access to two key digital platforms: 

    • MyHMCTS – A specialised portal for legal professionals to manage and interact with case materials on behalf of their client 

    • CitizenUI – An accessible interface for members of the public to access directly 

    The national rollout completed in July 2024, transforming all Employment Tribunal offices. Throughout rollout, we’ve made sure our staff have felt supported and clear on the role they play in having a positive impact on the tribunal process.  

    The online service is popular too, with 80% of all single claims now made digitally. 

    Getting support 

    While digital innovation is important, we’ve maintained our commitment to accessibility: 

    • Paper options remain for those who need them 

    • Development of central printing facilities 

    • Comprehensive guidance materials 

    • Support for those without digital access or confidence 

    Feedback and insights 

    Users across the system have embraced the changes: 

    Access to the relevant documents without waiting for either the parties or the staff to provide them… it is a game changer. – Tribunal Judge 

    The system/portal has great potential and should be a very useful and efficient tool for both users and HMCTS. – Legal Professional 

    I don’t have to carry so much stuff around… I can get what I need usually from the electronic file. – Tribunal Staff Member 

    Supporting Sarah through her workplace dispute  

    “I was looking forward to starting my maternity leave and spending time with my family but after a few months, I realised my employer’s attitude towards me had changed.  

    Before I told them I was pregnant, I was regularly encouraged to apply for promotion and my boss would send me details of vacancies and training opportunities. This contact stopped while I was on maternity leave and I later discovered colleagues had applied for and been promoted into roles I would have been perfect for, but I was never told about them. I was excluded and I felt my employer had discriminated against me and I became extremely unhappy.  

    It was a daunting prospect, but I decided to make a claim to an Employment Tribunal. I’d never done anything like this before and I was very nervous but the process has been great so far. Because it’s all online, I can log on whenever I want and see how the claim is progressing. This has been really important as I rarely have the time to make phone calls in the day, chasing people up. I also thought I’d have to travel to hearings on a regular basis, but that hasn’t been the case.  

    I’m actually enjoying the process and I look forward to the claim being settled so I can move on with my life.”  

    Working together 

    We worked closely with: 

    • Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) – now the Department of Business and Trade – and the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) to consult on plans to reform the service 

    • Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas) to make sure free advice would be available to those using the digital service 

    • the judiciary as a vital partner at all levels 

    Future plans 

    We’re committed to continuous improvement through: 

    • developing Service Centre support by end of 2025 

    • implementing ‘ListAssist’ software for improved case listing 

    • developing capability for handling multiple claims 

    • enhancing system performance and improving how to navigate it further 

    • introducing bulk printing and scanning facilities 

    • refining user-friendly interfaces based on feedback from our teams 

    Stay updated 

    Keep informed about Employment Tribunals through: 

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN receives Vice Governor of Anhui Province of China

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today received a courtesy call by Vice Governor of Anhui Province, China, Mr. Sun Yong. They discussed potential activities to strengthen cooperation between ASEAN and China, particularly with the Anhui Province, taking the benefits of ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA) and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement. They also exchanged views on the opportunities to bring business to business network between ASEAN and China closer to the peoples of both sides.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN receives Vice Governor of Anhui Province of China appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN receives Vice Governor of Anhui Province of China

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today received a courtesy call by Vice Governor of Anhui Province, China, Mr. Sun Yong. They discussed potential activities to strengthen cooperation between ASEAN and China, particularly with the Anhui Province, taking the benefits of ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA) and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement. They also exchanged views on the opportunities to bring business to business network between ASEAN and China closer to the peoples of both sides.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN receives Vice Governor of Anhui Province of China appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Somalia joins Afreximbank as it seeks to boost Intra-African trade and economic growth

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

    CAIRO, Egypt, March 24, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Somalia has formally acceded to the Establishment Agreement of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), becoming the 53rd African member state of the African multilateral financial institution and bringing the Bank closer to its goal of broadening its product offerings to all parts of the continent.  

    In the instrument of accession signed by Hon. Hirsi Jama Gani, State Minister, Office of the Prime Minister, Somalia notified Afreximbank that Somalia “accepts, and hereby accedes, to the Agreement for the Establishment of the Bank” and pledged to undertake all necessary steps to expedite ratification of the Agreement. 

    Somalia’s membership of Afreximbank is a significant milestone that places the country on a path of sustainable economic transformation, upgrading of the country’s trade and industrial infrastructure, and most importantly joins the rest of the continent in the push towards continental integration and self-reliance through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). 

    Expressing deep satisfaction at Somalia’s decision to accede to the Agreement, Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, emphasised the mutual benefits to both parties. 

    “We are delighted to welcome Somalia into the Afreximbank family. This is a significant milestone as it widens the opportunity for the Somali public and private sectors to access financing and other related interventions that addresses their real needs. By joining the Bank, Somalia embarks on a new journey of pursuing its developmental aspirations on its own terms, backed by unwavering support from Afreximbank, a bank with proven track record of supporting its Participating States in good and bad times. Today, we begin a collective journey to enable the Somali economy to realise the maximum value from its natural resources while hastening its integration into the African Continental Free Trade Area.” 

    Hon. Hirsi Jama Ganni, Somalia’s State Minister of the Office of the Prime Minister expressed gratitude to Afreximbank for Somalia’s membership: “On behalf of the Government of Somalia and its people, I sincerely thank Afreximbank for its efforts that led our country to become a member state of the Bank. This milestone agreement signals our commitment to becoming a key player in regional and continental development, especially through trade, under the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This partnership is significant to Somalia’s ongoing reconstruction and economic diversification efforts, opening doors for financial and technical support.” 

    Hon. Ganni added: “We urge Afreximbank to accelerate the implementation of its programs and initiatives in Somalia, aligning them with Somalia’s National Development Plan and helping it meet its ambitious development goals. This is a critical step in realising the full potential of our country and for Somalia to regain its position as a strategic trade hub within East Africa .”  

    This accession follows proactive engagements between Afreximbank and the Somalia government, aimed at identifying and exploring opportunities to support the country’s development agenda. A collaborative roadmap has been established to guide these efforts. Additionally, Afreximbank has initiated discussions with Somalia’s corporate and financial sectors, recognizing their vital role in delivering the Bank’s developmental programs and fostering economic growth within the country.  

    In the meeting with the Afreximbank team, Hon. Abdirahman Abdullahi, Governor of the Central Bank of Somalia said: “Afreximbank’s visit to Mogadishu was timely as it came just after Somalia joined the East African Community regional trade bloc in 2024, and successfully completed the Highly Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) debt relief process. The Somali people are renowned for their trade and entrepreneurial spirit, and I urge the business community in Somalia to fully leverage the opportunities offered by Afreximbank under its financing programs, to expand their reach, drive sustainable growth, and contribute to a more connected and competitive economy.” 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE to attend Boao Forum

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee will depart for Hainan tomorrow to attend the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2025.

    The theme of this year’s conference is ‘Asia in the Changing World: Towards a Shared Future’.

    Mr Lee will attend the conference’s opening plenary and deliver a speech at the Global Free Trade Port Development Forum.

    Secretary for Innovation, Technology & Industry Prof Sun Dong will also attend and speak at a forum about enhancing digital capacity and bridging digital divides.

    During his visit, Mr Lee will also witness the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and the People’s Government of Hainan Province.

    Deputy Chief Secretary Cheuk Wing-hing and Under Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Clement Woo will be present for part of the trip.

    Mr Lee will return to Hong Kong on Thursday. During his absence, Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki will be Acting Chief Executive.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ABC Adelaide, interview

    Source: Australian Attorney General’s Agencies

    This transcript has been redacted in accordance with Digital Transformation Agency guidelines.

    Rory McClaren: In a time of growing global uncertainty, my next guest is currently charged with trying to navigate Australia’s international trade relationships. Federal Minister for Trade and Tourism and South Australian Senator Don Farrell. Good morning to you.

    Trade Minister: Good morning, Rory.

    Rory McClaren: Minister, ABC News is reporting today that a lobby group representing the big tech sector in the US Is encouraging the Trump administration to try and put pressure on Australia to change its policies. And the group has attacked the way that social media, streaming services, and artificial intelligence is being regulated. How do you respond to that criticism?

    Trade Minister: Well, every day, Rory, you get reports of things happening in the United States. I don’t panic about them and try and work through all of these issues, in a calm and consistent way. On this particular topic, of course, we are not singling out United States companies. We treat all companies from all countries equally, and that’s how it should be, and that’s how we’ll proceed to deal with these issues. We have been working to try and improve online safety for all Australians and of course, ensure that we’ve got a diverse and sustainable news media sector. So, that’s our objective out of all of this. And we’ll keep working in the interest of Australians on that online safety and that diversification of the media sector.

    Rory McClaren: But is this intervention from this lobby group just another example of how volatile this trade relationship is becoming with the United States?

    Trade Minister: Look, again, I don’t think we should be overreacting to everything that comes out from the United States. We’ve had a very long standing and good relationship with the United States. Sure, things have started to change in the last few weeks and the last few months. But the goodwill that we have towards the Americans and that they have towards us is still on display. I spoke with my counterpart, the United States Trade Representative, on Tuesday morning. We had a very good discussion. He got to explain what their objectives are. And I explained to them just how important we think we are to the American economy. We have an interesting trade relationship with America. We roughly have $100 billion worth of trade. We buy $70 billion worth of product off them and we sell them $30 billion worth of product. So, we say to them, look, why would you impose a tariff on a country where you have a trade surplus? He pointed out to me that there are only a few other countries in the world where the United States has a trade surplus. One is Hong Kong and the other one is the Netherlands. So, as best we can, we are trying to explain to the highest levels of the United States government just how our trading relationship works. And we’ll continue to do that over the days and the weeks ahead. Obviously, there’s going to be some developments next week. The American government is going to announce what it’s going to do across the board on tariffs on that.

    Rory McClaren: Have you received any reassurances from the Trump administration about Australia and how Australia will be impacted?

    Trade Minister: We’re continuing to talk with them, Rory. I think that’s the most appropriate thing I can say at this stage. We want to engage with the Americans. We want to understand what it is that they want out there, out of the relationship. We’ve had 20 years of our free trade agreement. We think it’s been beneficial to both countries. We want that relationship to continue. Obviously, we have a very important relationship, particularly in South Australia with the AUKUS arrangement. We continue to talk to them about that and we have good, strong, friendly relationships with the United States and we want to keep it that way.

    Rory McClaren: Just on that, we’ve had a text with a question for you, Senator Don Farrell. Do we have a free trade agreement with the U.S. and if so, have they broken it? Do these free trade agreements really mean anything?

    Trade Minister: Well, answering that final question, yes, yes, they are important. You might recall three years ago when I first came into this job, we had $20 billion worth of tariffs and impediments imposed on us by the Chinese government. Despite the fact that we had a free trade agreement with the Chinese. Over that three year period, we – one by one – managed to remove all of those tariffs and all of those trade impediments. The last of them, interestingly, was crayfish just before Christmas last year. And already in that first month we’ve sold $33 million worth of crayfish back into the Chinese market. A record amount. But what did we use? We used our free trade agreement to take issues to, for instance, the World Trade Organization. And we were able to, by combination of diplomacy and other remedies, we were able to resolve each and every one of those issues. So, yes, we do have a free trade agreement with the United States and yes, we are able to use those free trade agreements to progress issues if there is a dispute. Now, obviously first point is we’re trying to resolve issues with the United States by discussion. That’s the first starting point. What we might do subsequently to that. Well, let’s, let’s see what happens. But my ambition is to do what we did in the China situation, that is sit down, open the dialogue, start talking, try and understand what their issues are, but also explain to the Americans what our issues are.

    Rory McClaren: Minister, could that also see you travel to the United States ahead of that decision?

    Trade Minister: Well, I’ve been taking video conferences in the post Covid world. That’s a pretty good way to talk to people and to communicate with people. I don’t want to predict just how we’ll conduct those negotiations, but the listeners should be, should rest assured that we’re open to dialogue and we are having dialogue with the Americans as we speak. And we’ll continue to do that because I think that’s the way you resolve issues. That’s how you resolve issues. Between other people. And that’s how you resolve issues between countries. And that’s what I’d like to do.

    Rory McClaren: Don Farrell, Federal Trade Tourism Minister, thank you for your time.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial News: Changes to FAST and SIMBA SPECTRA protocols in version 8.3

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    Dear customers,

    Moscow Exchange PJSC notifies about changes in the FAST and SIMBA SPECTRA protocols of the derivatives market, planned for implementation on June 23, 2025 as part of version 8.3. In case of change of date, a notification about it will be sent.

    PLEASE NOTE that changes in the FAST and SIMBA SPECTRA protocols of the futures market do not maintain backward compatibility and require modifications on the client software side. A description of the changes, templates and diagrams are available at the links:http: //ftp.moex.kom/pub/simb. spectrum/test/t1/simim_8.3/http: //ftp.moex.kom/pub/fast/ spectrum/Test/fast_8.3/

    Changes in the FAST protocol

    The SecurityDefinition message identifier has been changed from id=”38″ to id=”40″. The following fields have been added to the SecurityDefinition message: TradeModeID – The trading mode the instrument is a part of. GroupMask – Bits (flags) with the numbers of groups the instrument is a part of are enabled. SectionID – Section identifier. BaseContractID – FBC (futures base contract) identifier. TradePeriodAccess – Trade indicator for a certain session period. Added a new message SecurityGroupStatus with id=”39″ – group status of instruments. The message is transmitted in the FUT-INFO and OPT-INFO streams. The identifier of the TradingSessionStatus message has been changed from id=”8″ to id=”41″. The TradePeriodID field has been added to the message – the identifier of the trading period. The identifier of the DiscreteAuction message has been changed from id=”26″ to id=”42″. The TradePeriodID field has been added to the message – the identifier of the trading period. In the TradingSessionStatus and SecurityDefinition messages, a broadcast of a new value ‘100’ – an additional weekend session – has been added to the TradingSessionID field. In the SecurityDefinition message, the broadcast of the flags in the Flags field has been stopped: ‘0x1’ – Indicator of trading in an additional trading session (evening/morning) ‘0x40’ – Indicator of trading to the main session The following broadcast has been added to the FO-TRADES stream: MDEntryType = ‘U’ – Indicative funding rate for a perpetual futures contract. The value is transmitted in the MDEntryPx field. MDEntryType = ‘Z’ – Current dividend adjustment for a perpetual futures contract on an index or stock. The value is transmitted in the MDEntryPx field. MDEntryType = ‘m’ – Current market price. The value is transmitted in the MDEntryPx field for futures, calendar spreads and options.

    Changes in SIMBA protocol

    The version of the scheme has been changed from version=”5″ to version=”6″. The SecurityDefinition message identifier has been changed from id=”20″ to id=”21″. The following fields have been added to the SecurityDefinition message: TradeModeID – The trading mode the instrument is included in. GroupMask – Bits (flags) with the numbers of groups the instrument is included in are enabled. SectionID – Section identifier. BaseContractID – FBC (futures base contract) identifier. TradePeriodAccess – Indicator of trading in a certain period of the session. Added a new message SecurityGroupStatus with id=”22″ – group status of instruments. The message is transmitted in the FUT-INFO and OPT-INFO streams. The identifier of the TradingSessionStatus message has been changed from id=”11″ to id=”23″. The TradePeriodID field has been added to the message – the identifier of the trading period. The identifier of the DiscreteAuction message has been changed from id=”13″ to id=”24″. The TradePeriodID field has been added to the message – the identifier of the trading period. In the TradingSessionStatus and SecurityDefinition messages, a broadcast of a new value ‘100’ has been added to the TradingSessionID field – an additional weekend session. In the SecurityDefinition message, the broadcast of the flags in the Flags field has been stopped: ‘EveningOrMorningSession’ – a sign of trading in an additional trading session (evening/morning) ‘DaySession’ – Indication of trading during the main session

    In FlagsSet the following have been removed:

    0 6

    We remind you that the mailbox Defers@moex.Kom is not monitored by technical support. For all technical questions, please call: 7 (495) 733-9507 or at Help@moex.Kom. To unsubscribe from receiving technical news or add additional addresses to the mailing list, send a free-form request to Help@moex.Kom
     

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //VVV. MOEX.K.MO/N88735

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: ADB’s Partnership with Canada

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    • ADB and Canada have been working together for nearly six decades to tackle some of the most pressing development challenges in Asia and the Pacific.

    Article | 24 March 2025

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    •  A founding member of ADB, Canada has contributed $245 million to sovereign projects, matched by $868 million of ADB’s resources, and $530 million to ADB-managed trust funds.
    •  Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy’s investment of about Can$2.3 billion over the next five years focuses on sustainable infrastructure, gender equality, climate change, and inclusive development.
    •  ADB and FinDev, Canada’s development finance institution, signed a memorandum of understanding in May 2023 to cooperate on sustainable and inclusive private sector investments that promote development in Asia and the Pacific.

    For nearly six decades, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Canada have collaborated to tackle some of the most pressing development challenges in Asia and the Pacific. From advancing gender equality to addressing the climate crisis, environmental degradation, and poverty and inequality, the partnership has played an important role in the region’s sustainable development.

    A founding member of ADB, Canada has contributed $245 million to sovereign projects, matched by $868 million of ADB’s resources, and $530 million to ADB-managed trust funds. Canada-based private entities have also committed $383 million to nonsovereign operations.

    In 2023, Canada’s cofinancing commitments amounted to $6.9 million. In the same year, ADB’s Trade and Supply Chain Finance Program supported five Canadian exports and/or imports valued at $2.1 million.

    Advancing shared priorities

    Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, launched in November 2022, identifies Asia and the Pacific as a region of immense opportunity. With an investment of about Can$2.3 billion over the next five years, the strategy signals Canada’s commitment to the region. It focuses on sustainable infrastructure, gender equality, climate change, and inclusive development. It also aligns efforts with global initiatives such as the G7 Partnership for Global Infrastructure Investment.

    Collaborating with FinDev Canada

    ADB and FinDev, Canada’s development finance institution, signed a memorandum of understanding in May 2023 to cooperate on sustainable and inclusive private sector investments that promote development in Asia and the Pacific. They will jointly support private sector growth and investments in emerging and developing markets that advance women’s economic empowerment, climate action, and local market development.

    Driving results through trust funds

    ADB’s trust funds are essential to mobilize private financing and accelerate private sector participation in development. Canada has supported 6 ADB-managed trust funds, including:

    Asia Pacific Project Preparation Facility. Enhancing infrastructure development with $63.3 million in collective contributions alongside Australia, Japan, and the Republic of Korea. It supports the preparation and structuring of infrastructure projects, with private sector participation, and bringing them to the global market.

    Canadian Climate and Nature Fund for the Private Sector in Asia. Supporting private sector projects in the region focused on climate and nature-based solutions, with $255 million in commitments.

    Canadian Climate Fund for the Private Sector in Asia. Catalyzing private investment in climate change mitigation and adaptation in Asia and the Pacific. It is ADB’s first concessional debt cofinancing facility focused on private sector climate actions, with $77.3 million in commitments.

    Canadian Climate Fund for the Private Sector in Asia II. Supporting private sector participation in climate change mitigation and adaptation in low- and lower-middle-income countries and upper-middle-income small island developing states, with $149.5 million in commitments.

    Stories of ADB-Canada partnerships

    Bangladesh: Keeping the Kids in Primary School. Bangladesh’s Primary Education Development Program, cofinanced by ADB and Canada, and other partners, introduced innovative approaches that changed the face of basic education in the country, such as the adoption of multimedia, teacher training, and reward schemes to encourage kids to stay in school.

    Lao People’s Democratic Republic: Southeast Asia’s Biggest Wind Power Plant. The Monsoon Wind Power Company is building a wind power plant in the Lao PDR. ADB and Canada, along with other partners, are cofinancing what is poised to become the largest wind power facility in Southeast Asia.

    Maldives: Boosting Small Businesses and the Blue Economy. ADB and Canada, along with other partners, are providing the Bank of Maldives with a financing package to boost small businesses and investments in sustainable blue economy projects.

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    • ADB funds and products

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE to attend Boao Forum annual conference in Hainan

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    CE to attend Boao Forum annual conference in Hainan 
    The theme of this year’s conference is “Asia in the Changing World: Towards a Shared Future”. Mr Lee will attend the opening plenary of the annual conference and deliver a speech at the Global Free Trade Port Development Forum. Additionally, the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, will attend and speak at the “Enhancing Digital Capacity Building & Bridging Digital Divide” Forum.
     
    During his visit to Hainan, Mr Lee will also witness the signing of Memoranda of Understanding between the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and the People’s Government of Hainan Province. The Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Cheuk Wing-hing, and the Under Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Clement Woo, will join relevant parts of the visit.
     
    Mr Lee will return to Hong Kong on March 27. During his absence, the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, will be the Acting Chief Executive.
    Issued at HKT 9:00

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: New appointments to arts institutions

    Source: Workplace Gender Equality Agency

    The Albanese Labor Government has made a range of appointments to arts bodies and cultural institutions to ensure they remain under strong leadership.

    • Mr Tony Ayers has been appointed as a member of the Council of the National Museum of Australia for a three-year term.
    • Ms Sue Hampel OAM has been reappointed to the National Archives of Australia Advisory Council for a three-year term.
    • Mr John Barrington AM has been reappointed as Deputy Chair to the National Portrait Gallery Board for a three-year term. 

    Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the appointees would lend a deep well of expertise to guide the administration of these important organisations.

    “Each appointee brings years of dedication and experience across the arts and public sectors that positions them well for these roles.

    “Protecting our beloved cultural institutions for future generations means having the best leadership in place to safeguard them.”

    Mr Tony Ayres is an award-winning Australian director, producer, showrunner, screenwriter, and editor with more than 33 years’ experience in film and television. Mr Ayres’ feature films and television shows have been nominated for over 100 Australian and international awards, and have won more than 60 of these awards – including an International Emmy, a BAFTA, a Golden Horse, six AACTA awards, and six Logies. Mr Ayres is Executive Producer at Tony Ayres Productions, a Member of the Advisory Board of Australians in Film, and a Company Director at Big and Little Films.

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    Ms Sue Hampel OAM has been a member of the National Archives Advisory Council since 2019. Ms Hampel is working as a teaching associate and research assistant at the Australian Centre for Jewish Civilisation at Monash University and is a well-known public speaker and lecturer. She holds a Masters degree in Holocaust and Genocide Studies and is the co-President of the Melbourne Holocaust Museum. Ms Hampel has been recognised for her teaching and community service by receiving numerous awards including a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2014, for Service to the community through the promotion of understanding and tolerance. 

    Ms Hampel is a representative of the Australian delegation to the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA). She is an expert in Holocaust education and served as the International Chair of the Education Working Group in 2021.

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    Mr John Barrington AM has served as Deputy Chair on the National Portrait Gallery of Australia Board since May 2022. He is co-founder and previously Managing Director of Artificial Intelligence (AI) company Artrya Ltd, developing AI solutions to improve the diagnosis of heart disease and is Managing Director of Barrington Consulting Group. He is Chair of John Curtin Gallery and Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and a Director of Health Translation Group Ltd. He was previously Chair of Perth International Arts Festival, Deputy Chair of Creative Partnerships Australia, Deputy Chair on the Federal Government’s Creative Economy Taskforce and was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Commerce from Curtain University in 2022. In 2019 he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to the community of Western Australia

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