Latest news with #OEC
Business Wire
08-07-2025
- Automotive
- Business Wire
Orion S.A. to rationalize production lines in Americas, EMEA
HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Orion S.A. (NYSE: OEC), a global specialty chemicals company, announced today it plans to discontinue production at three to five of its carbon black lines at multiple facilities in the Americas and EMEA by the end of 2025. "This decision is part of Orion's strategy to focus maintenance investments on higher-performing production lines – making them more reliable and productive – and to rationalize underperforming assets,' Orion CEO Corning Painter said. 'This move is also intended to enhance free cash flow." Painter added, 'Recently introduced U.S. tariffs, the EU anti-dumping investigation and continued tire capacity investment in both regions should help reverse the local tire manufacturing share loss. However, given the uncertain timing of this recovery, we are choosing to take this action now.' About Orion S.A. Orion S.A. (NYSE: OEC) is a leading global supplier of carbon black, a solid form of carbon produced as powder or pellets. The material is made to customers' exacting specifications for tires, coatings, ink, batteries, plastics and numerous other specialty, high-performance applications. Carbon black is used to tint, colorize, provide reinforcement, conduct electricity, increase durability and add UV protection. Orion has four innovation centers and produces carbon black at 15 plants worldwide, offering the most diverse variety of production processes in the industry. The company's corporate lineage goes back more than 160 years to Germany, where it operates the world's longest-running carbon black plant. Orion is a leading innovator, applying a deep understanding of customers' needs to deliver sustainable solutions. For more information, please visit Forward-Looking Statements This document contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are statements of future expectations that are based on current expectations and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these statements. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of the particular statement. New risk factors and uncertainties emerge from time to time and it is not possible to predict all risk factors and uncertainties, nor can we assess the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or other information, other than as required by applicable law.
Business Wire
07-07-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
OKI Launches Small-Lot Custom Long FPCs for the New Space Industry
TOKYO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--OKI Electric Cable (President: Hideo Yamaguchi; Headquarters: Isesaki City, Gunma Prefecture; 'OEC' hereinafter), the OKI Group's electric cable business company, will launch the sale of small-lot custom long flexible printed circuits (FPCs) for use in equipment mounted on rockets and satellites for the New Space industry on July 8, 2025. The products support the spot development and production, even from single lots, often needed for research, development, and prototyping. Targeting the rapidly growing global space market, these FPCs will allow for smaller, lighter, and thinner equipment. OEC's proprietary production technology at its Gunma Factory (Isesaki City, Gunma Prefecture) has made it possible to manufacture long FPCs measuring up to 100 meters in length, and has enabled small-lot custom development and production. These products are expected to advance the development of space equipment, shorten lead times, and reduce launch costs. OEC is targeting sales of 50 million yen in FY2026. OKI Electric Cable will launch the sale of small-lot custom long flexible printed circuits (FPCs) for the New Space industry. These products are expected to advance the development of space equipment, shorten lead times, and reduce launch costs. Share FPCs are printed circuit boards that have electrical circuits formed on a substrate made by bonding together a conductive metal such as copper foil and a thin, light, soft, durable, and flexible insulating base film (such as polyimide with high heat and radiation resistance). Their capacity to bend freely permits wiring in confined or three-dimensional spaces within equipment and in moving parts subject to repeated flexing. These FPCs can be manufactured in lengths of up to 100 meters. They have a proven track record in applications for space equipment, including installation on IKAROS, the JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency)'s small solar-powered sail demonstrator. OEC has also established two unique production systems: a sheet-fed line (Note 1) for small-lot production and roll-to-roll line (Note 2) for mass production. The systems support the production of a diverse range of shapes and sizes, even from single lots, and flexibly respond to different required specifications depending on the installation location. These systems can also accommodate diverse needs from development and prototype manufacture to mass production, and greatly contribute to the miniaturization and weight reduction of space equipment, which also contributes to reduced launch costs. In its Medium-Term Business Plan 2025, OKI designates the aerospace market as a strategic focus for its EMS business. Drawing on its space-quality manufacturing capabilities, not only in design and production, but also simulations at the equipment design phase, OKI is working to expand technological development and sales in the global aerospace market. [Sales Plan] Standard price: Quoted individually Sales target: 50 million yen annually (FY2026) Launch date: July 8, 2025 [Terminology] Note 1: Sheet-fed line An FPC production line that uses material in sheet form and offers high flexibility, making it ideal for small-lot multi-product production. Note 2: Roll-to-roll line An FPC production line that uses material in roll form and offers high production capacity, making it ideal for mass production. [Related Link] FPC information website: About Oki Electric Industry (OKI) Founded in 1881, OKI is Japan's leading information and telecommunication manufacturer. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, OKI provides top-quality products, technologies, and solutions to customers through its Public Solutions, Enterprise Solutions, Component Products, and Electronics Manufacturing Services businesses. Its various business divisions function synergistically to bring to market exciting new products and technologies that meet a wide range of customer needs in various sectors. Visit OKI's global website at Notes: - Oki Electric Industry Co., Ltd. is commonly referred to as OKI. - Oki Electric Cable Co., Ltd. is commonly referred to as OKI Electric Cable. - All other company names and product names mentioned in this text are the trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective companies.
Filipino Times
07-07-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
What OFWs need to know about the pilot implementation of 100% online contract verification in the UAE
Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in the UAE can now verify their employment contracts fully online, thanks to the Department of Migrant Workers' (DMW) new digital initiative. This 30-day pilot program, launched on July 7, 2025, covers OFWs under the jurisdiction of MWO-Dubai and Northern Emirates, including those in Dubai, Ajman, Sharjah, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain. Here's a rundown of the most important questions and answers about the new system: Where can OFWs access the online platform? OFWs can access the system by visiting The portal is open from Monday to Friday, starting at 8:00 a.m. each day. It accepts up to 200 applications daily and closes at 11:59 p.m. or once the limit is reached. Is this online system mandatory for all OFWs? No, the online system is optional. OFWs can still have their contracts verified in person at MWO-Dubai. Manual verification remains available, especially for workers with confirmed flights, who may visit the office one working day before departure. Who is qualified to apply through the online system? The online service is for land-based OFWs under the jurisdiction of MWO-Dubai who have not yet had their employment contracts verified. Applicants must have a valid employment visa and be receiving their salary through proper channels like the Wages Protection System or direct bank transfer. OFWs who are not on employment visas, those earning below AED 1,500, domestic workers under 24 years old, and those involved in visa trading or using invalid sponsor information are not eligible. The system also excludes seafarers and those working under freelance or invalid business licenses. What documents are needed for online submission? Applicants must upload a clear copy of their signed employment contract, Philippine passport, and both sides of their Emirates ID. The system requires all mandatory documents before the submission can proceed. Optional documents include payslip or salary certificate, bank certificate, and company details. Files should be in PDF, JPEG, or PNG format only. What happens if documents are incomplete? If required documents are missing or unclear, the application will be disapproved. During the pilot run, applicants whose submissions are rejected will receive an email explaining the reason and how they can correct it. How long will the verification process take? If the documents are complete and the verification fee is paid, the process usually takes three working days. Once approved, the applicant will receive an email and can download their verified contract from the system. Can I also get my OEC through the same platform? Once your contract is verified and the fee is paid, your Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) will be available within 24 hours through your e-Registration account at Contract verification and OEC issuance are two separate steps but are connected in the system. Are there any fees for this service? Yes. The verification fee is AED 40, which is only paid after your contract is approved. There is also a convenience fee of AED 21.50 paid at the start of your online application, plus a separate AED 1.00 fee from the payment gateway. Payments can be made securely using any debit or credit card. What if I have questions or need help with the system? For any issues or inquiries, OFWs may email MWO-Dubai at [email protected]. There is also a step-by-step guide on the application portal to help users through the process. Do I need to use the new system if I already have a verified contract and OEC? No. If your details have not changed and you already have a verified contract or OEC exemption through the DMW's e-Registration system, you don't need to use the new platform. The launch of the 100% online contract verification system marks a major step forward in making government services more accessible and convenient for OFWs in the UAE. By removing the need for physical visits to the Migrant Workers Office, the Department of Migrant Workers aims to save time, reduce stress, and strengthen protections for Filipino workers abroad. As the pilot implementation rolls out, OFWs are encouraged to take advantage of the new system, stay informed, and share the information with fellow kababayans.
Morocco World
02-07-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Multisectoral Partnership Drives India-Morocco Ties Forward, More Growth on Horizon
Rabat – Guided by King Mohammed VI's vision, Morocco's diplomacy has positioned the North African country as a key player and a strategic partner on the global stage. Through an almost octopus-like approach to foreign policy, Morocco's diplomacy has proven influential from north to south and west to east, creating strategic relations across continents. The country's multidirectional diplomacy enabled Morocco to not only deepen its partnership in Africa and Europe but also expand toward global powerhouses like India, a leader in many sectors, including information technology, exports, and innovation. Beyond diplomatic ties Recent data from the Indian government noted that the country's exports have reached $778.21 billion in 2023-2024. The number represents a 67% increase from 466.22 billion in 2013-2014, the same data shows, attributing the situation to India's 'expanding role in global trade, driven by strong performances in both merchandise and services exports.' Morocco's stability, appealing business environment, and advanced infrastructure make the country an ideal partner for countries across the world, especially those seeking to expand into new markets. For world leaders, a presence in Morocco means access to a fast-growing market, Africa — a continent with vast untapped potential in all industries, including agriculture. The continent's agriculture sector covers vast arable lands that remain underutilized, offering significant opportunities that could serve the continent's food security. Morocco's high-value sectors, like aeronautics and automotive, as well as the renewable energy industry, also provide fertile ground for both existing and potential. Multisectoral partnerships Statistics from different sources, including the Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC), have confirmed an already strong tie between India and Morocco. The observatory indicated that India exported $101 million to Morocco in March 2025. Meanwhile, the country imported $46 million as of March, with the observatory stressing that this resulted in a positive trade balance of $55.3 million. 'Between March 2024 and March 2025, the exports of India to Morocco increased by $8.15M (8.75%) from $93.1M to $101M, while imports decreased by $57.8M (55.7%) from $104M to $46M,' the data shows. India's main exports to Morocco include drug formulations, motor vehicles, cars, and biologicals. In 2020, Morocco exported $1.39 billion to India, with the main products exported covering phosphoric acid, mixed mineral or chemical fertilizers. Over the past 25 years, Moroccan exports to India strengthened at an annual rate of 6.25%, jumping from $306 million in 1995 to $1.39 billion in 2020. In 2020, meanwhile, India exported $623 million to Morocco, with imports including refined petroleum, packaged medicines, and cars. India's exports to the North African country reached an annual rate of 11.8%, jumping from $38.9 million in 1995 to $623 million. India's private industry increasingly sees Morocco as an attractive investment destination. Over the years, the number of Indian companies operating in Morocco has grown from 12 to 40, with businesses from the Asian country focusing on different sectors, including automotive, IT, green technologies, and hospitality. Some notable Indian companies operating in the North African country include Tata Motors, Sterling and Wilson, Larsen and Toubro, Sumilon, Furnace Fabrica, among several others. Morocco's appealing sectors In March, India's main imports from Morocco were fertilizers, which represent a key cornerstone sector in Morocco's economy. The North African country positioned itself as a global leader in fertilizer production, as it is home to over 70% of the world's phosphate reserves. In 2023, Morocco's fertilizer giant OCP Group announced a deal with India to supply the Asian country with 1.7 million metric tonnes of phosphate-based fertilizer. Under the deal, OCP announced it will supply 700,000 tonnes of fertilizers to the country. OCP emphasized that the fertilizers would be tailored to meet the needs of farmers' soil, with another one million tonnes to be supplied directly to farmers. Beyond fertilizers, Morocco is considered a powerhouse in other sectors, including the automotive industry, competing with key players like China and India. The Moroccan government is also confident that its automotive sector has the potential to be more competitive than these countries. Recently, Morocco's Minister of Industry, Ryad Mezzour, announced that the country's automotive production stands at 700,000 vehicles. The minister said that Morocco is expected to produce one million vehicles by the end of the year. Morocco's proximity to Europe and its position as a gateway to Africa attract dozens of industrial companies from all sectors, including automotive. Free zones across Kenitra, Tangier, Casablanca, and beyond host major automotive companies, including Renault, Stellantis, Yazaki, and more. Indian companies are also establishing a presence in the North African country, including Motherson Group. In 2022, the group opened its new site in Tangier Med, with a focus on producing instrument panels and door panels for passenger and light commercial vehicles. During the opening ceremony, the group emphasized Morocco's position as a strategic location for Motherson due to its proximity to Europe and the Middle East, noting that the new facility allows it to better serve its existing and new customers in the regions. Beyond the automotive sector, the partnership between Morocco and India also extends into different areas like defense and military collaboration. Expanding into defense and beyond In 2024, Moroccan military officials, including Abdellatif Loudidyi, Morocco's Minister Delegate in charge of national defense administration, highlighted the importance of bilateral ties and stressed how the two countries have 'every potential to pursue their positive momentum in various fields, including defense.' He also renewed Morocco's commitment to providing favorable conditions for Indian defense companies, vowing zero bureaucracy and profitability. 'We want you in Morocco, we will support you, ' Loudyi said, according to the Hindu. A strategic partnership in defense has already begun to take shape between the North African country and India's Tata Group. The military deal included a shipment of 90 military trucks. In September 2024, Morocco's military and TATA Advanced Systems Limited teamed up to produce the WhAP 8×8 armored combat vehicle domestically. The Moroccan Ministry of Defense said the project is a systematic step toward deepening the historical ties between Morocco and India. All of the aforementioned agreements and partnerships stem from strong diplomatic ties between the two countries. Many officials from both countries stressed the importance of these relations in forging further agreements benefiting New Delhi and Rabat at all levels. In May, a senior diplomat from the Indian embassy in Rabat emphasized the importance of ties between the two countries. In an exclusive statement to Morocco World News (MWN), the official warmly welcomed Morocco's place as a strategic ally to India. 'India and Morocco share a time-tested and resilient partnership built on deep mutual respect, strategic convergence, and shared quest for the well-being and prosperity of our citizens,' the official who preferred to speak under a condition of anonymity said. 'We value its stability, moderation, and deep ties to multiple regions,' the official added. The same remarks were echoed by the former Indian ambassador to Morocco in 2024 during the MWN-led initiative Rabat Networking Day (RND) in January, when Rajesh Vaishnaw celebrated the strong bilateral ties between Rabat and New Delhi. Commenting on ties between Morocco and India, Vaishnaw described them as 'friendly and close.' King's visit brought momentum to ties The former ambassador emphasized that relations have been strengthened, particularly after the landmark visit of King Mohammed VI to India in 2015. According to the Moroccan embassy in India, Morocco 'was an unknown destination for Indians for business and investment' for a long time . 'However, since the historic visit to India of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God Assist Him, in October 2015 on the occasion of the 3rd Summit of the India-Africa Forum, the Kingdom of Morocco has become increasingly present in the radar of the Indian business community and Indian multinationals in particular,' the embassy said. Most recently, reports resurfaced about a potential visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in early July as part of his potential five-nation diplomatic tour. However, a high-level source from the Indian embassy in Rabat familiar with the matter told MWN that the visit is unlikely to take place as such a visit should be well-planned. Similar high-level visits bring further momentum to relations between countries. A potential visit in the future by Modi could bring further momentum to Morocco-India relations, especially if India moves beyond its traditional position and joins the growing number of powers in recognizing Morocco's sovereignty over its southern provinces in Western Sahara. A shift towards full recognition or support for Morocco's Autonomy Plan as the most serious and credible political solution to the dispute would place India alongside over 113 countries, including the US, UK, France, and Spain. Morocco has constantly emphasized how Western Sahara is the lens through which Rabat views its relations and cooperation with other countries.
GMA Network
02-07-2025
- Politics
- GMA Network
EU observers give Comelec their final report on Eleksyon 2025
The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) turns over its Final Report and Recommendations for the May 12, 2025 National and Local Elections to the Commission on Elections at Comelec headquarters in Palacio del Gobernador, Intramuros, Manila on Wednesday, July 2, 2025. Photo: Commission on Elections The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Wednesday said it will review the recommendations of the European Union (EU) poll observers on the recent 2025 national and local elections (NLE). Members of the EU observation mission met with Comelec officials to formally turn over their final election observation report and recommendations, months after the conclusion of the May 12 midterm polls. 'Ang pangako ng lahat ng bawat isang miyembro ng Comelec kanina, aaralin at kung may mga bagay na maisasama sa proposal na revised Omnibus Election Code (OEC) ay isasama pa namin para maisaayos,' Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco told reporters. (The promise of each and every Comelec en banc member is to review the report and if there is any recommendation that may be included in the proposal for the revised OEC, then we will include it.) In April, the EU launched the election observation mission for Eleksyon 2025, deploying an initial 200 observers. More poll observers arrived in the country the following month. The international observers released their initial report on May 14, flagging widespread vote-buying; the continued dominance of political families; election-related violence, including on election day; and a legal framework that is fragmented and lacks grievance mechanisms. According to Laudiangco, among the EU poll observers' recommendations are decreasing the number of voters per precinct to shorten lines. They also reiterated the issues on vote buying, and violence, and lauded the poll body's transparency efforts, engagement with media, and expeditious actions on complaints of discrimination, and red-tagging. 'Mukhang ang susi kasi sa lahat ng nakitang observations, dalawang bagay: pagbabago sa legislation at pagpapalaki ng pondo. Kung masosolusyunan ang dalawang bagay na ito, tingin namin pareho, magagampanan namin ang sinasabi nilang international standard at mas magandang pagpapalakad ng halalan,' he added. (We saw that the key to these observations are two things: the amendment of election laws and a higher budget for the polls. If a way can be found for these, we think we will be able to attain the international standard and a better way of conducting elections.) The EU observation team said it will also submit its final report and recommendations to Congress. The Philippines held its midterm polls on May 12. — BM, GMA Integrated News For more Eleksyon 2025 related content and updates, visit GMA News Online's Eleksyon 2025 microsite.
