Latest news with #economicDevelopment
Zawya
5 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Jordan: Cabinet approves copper mining agreement, expands customs fine exemptions
AMMAN — The Cabinet on Wednesday approved a number economic and regulatory decisions during its session on Sunday, including an executive agreement for copper mining, new customs fine exemptions, and progress on green hydrogen development. During a session chaired by Prime Minister JafarHassan, the Cabinet approved a 30-year executive agreement with Wadi Araba Minerals Company for copper mining in southern Jordan. Under the deal, the company will be registered as a public shareholding entity, with a portion of its shares to be offered for public subscription. The agreement, which covers 25 square kilometers, prohibits the export of raw materials, mandating local processing to maximize national economic benefit. Government revenues will be tied to global copper prices. Copper is classified as a strategic resource in Jordan, requiring a special concession law for its exploitation. The Cabinet also expanded customs fine exemptions to include cases discovered or documented before January 1, 2025. Fines may now be waived by up to 90 per cent, up from the previous cut-off of 2022. The decision aims to support investors, traders, and citizens by closing pending customs cases and accelerating revenue collection, aligning with Jordan's broader economic modernization goals. The Cabinet granted a five-year grace period to quarry operators in the alternative Samad area (zones 1, 2, and 3) to cease operations. No new licenses will be issued in the area, and existing operators must commit to site rehabilitation. The Energy and Minerals Regulatory Commission was tasked with studying incentive options for operators who exit the area ahead of schedule. Green hydrogen The Cabinet also approved a land-use agreement with Indian company Ocior Energy to conduct feasibility studies for a green hydrogen production project. The initiative is part of Jordan's ambition to become a regional hub for green hydrogen and ammonia, with several memorandums of understanding already signed. The initiative aligns with the Economic Modernisation Vision's 2020–2030 roadmapunder the sustainable resources pillar. The Cabinet also approved recommendations to resolve 419 outstanding tax cases between taxpayers and the Income and Sales Tax Department. The move is part of efforts to ease regulatory pressure on businesses and promote sustainable growth by enabling tax settlements and reducing obstacles to expansion. The Cabinet agreed to amend financing agreements under the results-based programmefor education sector reform and approved an increase of approximately JD7 million to the Ministry of Education's 2026 budget allocation. The programme aims to improve the learning environment, boost kindergarten enrolment, modernise assessments and exams, enhance the General Secondary Education Certificate Examination (Tawjihi), expand student registration support, and establish a National Centre for Innovation in Educational Technology and Artificial Intelligence. The Cabinet approved recommendations from the Settlement and Reconciliation Committee to resolve 419 pending tax cases involving companies and individuals, under the Income and Sales Tax Laws. © Copyright The Jordan Times. All rights reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Malay Mail
26-05-2025
- Politics
- Malay Mail
Johor MB Onn Hafiz says state election still two years away, urges lawmakers to focus on unity
ISKANDAR PUTERI, May 26 — Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi has dismissed speculation of an early state election, reaffirming that the state government's term will only end in about two years. He said it is not election season yet, as the current administration remains in office until April 2027. 'We have about two years left to focus fully on economic and infrastructure development for the benefit of the people. 'So, let us find common ground to foster better cooperation and avoid differences that could lead to divisions,' he said during his winding-up speech at the Johor state legislative assembly in Kota Iskandar today. Onn Hafiz commended the commitment and integrity displayed by state assemblymen, despite their differing political ideologies. 'There is harmony in the state legislative assembly, and I will report to the Johor Regent, Tunku Mahkota Ismail, that all assemblymen have upheld unity and demonstrated a strong consensus,' he said. The Machap assemblyman also reminded lawmakers that Johor must set a positive example for others. He called on all assemblymen not only to raise issues on record but to take meaningful action to resolve the concerns of the people. In the 2022 Johor state election, Barisan Nasional (BN) achieved a supermajority, securing 40 out of 56 state seats. The snap election was called after the Johor government under then-Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Hasni Mohammad lost its simple majority, leaving it with a minority government of 28 seats against the Opposition's 27, represented by Pakatan Harapan (PH). The situation arose following the death of Kempas assemblyman and former menteri besar Datuk Osman Sapian on December 21, 2021, which led to the dissolution of the state assembly.
CBS News
26-05-2025
- Politics
- CBS News
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson credits his policies for drop in crime
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson spoke out on Sunday, one week after his comments on the city's hiring practices sparked a federal investigation. This time, Mayor Johnson touted his achievements since taking office. On Sunday morning at the Heritage International Christian Church, at 5312 W. North Ave. in the North Austin neighborhood on Chicago's West Side, Mayor Johnson said crime has gone down thanks to his efforts. "Through these critical investments that we are making for housing and economic development, robberies are down by 36%, shootings are down by 36%, homicides are down by 21%, and violent crime overall is down by 21%," Johnson said. The mayor also said his administration has contributed to the drop in crime by reopening three mental health clinics, and creating 29,000 summer jobs for youth. That figure is up 45% since Mayor Johnson took office.
Globe and Mail
23-05-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
NACCA Promotes Indigenous Business and Community Participation in the Defence Supply Chain
OTTAWA, ON , May 23, 2025 /CNW/ - The National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) announces its support for a bold new pilot program promoting the participation of Indigenous communities and businesses in Canada's defence supply chain. The Indigenous Defence Supply Chain Pilot is a joint initiative of NACCA and the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers ( CANDO ). On May 28–29, the two Indigenous economic organizations will bring 25 Indigenous businesses to CANSEC 2025, Canada's leading defence, security, and emerging technology trade show. The businesses will have an opportunity to build relationships and profile their goods and services at CANSEC's Indigenous Pavillion. "Indigenous businesses are ready, willing, and able to supply to defence projects—which are often located on or near their territories," says Shannin Metatawabin , NACCA's CEO. "But the bidding process is still complex and unfamiliar, and those essential relationships with the sector still need to be built." The Indigenous Defence Supply Chain Pilot will be a three-year effort focused on building Indigenous capacity to participate in defence procurement. Through an annual call for applications, the pilot will provide cohorts of 30 to 50 Indigenous business owners, community leaders, and development officers access to tools, training, and mentoring in defence procurement. "This pilot will connect Indigenous businesses and communities to an industry that is known to be difficult to access, while demonstrating its practical approach to cultivating opportunity," says NACCA board chair Elaine Chambers . "And this is only the beginning. To assist First Nation businesses, the First Nations Procurement Authority was just established on May 1, 2025 . Part of its mandate will be to take over initiatives like the Defence Supply Chain Pilot for First Nations businesses, making the introductions now occurring at CANSEC a regular feature." Founded on May 1, 2025 , the First Nation Procurement Authority (FNPA) is a not-for-profit corporation that will offer outreach, training, and support to help verified First Nation businesses access government and corporate procurement opportunities. With a clear mandate from the Assembly of First Nations, the FNPA is governed by Canada's five most prominent national Indigenous economic organizations: NACCA, AFOA Canada, the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers, First Nations Finance Authority, and First Nations Financial Management Board. The FNPA is modelled after successful institutions supporting Indigenous procurement in Australia , New Zealand , and the United States . Once it becomes fully operational, the FNPA will serve as a vital resource for governments and corporate Canada to procure from verified First Nation businesses in a wide range of sectors. Quick Facts The Government of Canada has mandated that federal departments and agencies allocate at least 5% of the total values of their contracts to Indigenous businesses by 2030. An Indigenous business is one that is comprised of at least 51% ownership and control by First nations, Inuit or Metis individual. Despite there being more than 60,000 Indigenous businesses in Canada , only 2900 are registered withing the Indigenous Services Canada managed Indigenous Business Directory. The IFI network has provided $53,000+ loans totaling $3.3 billion to businesses owned by First Nations, Métis, and Inuit. The IFI network has provided $53,000+ loans totaling $3.3 billion to businesses owned by First Nations, Métis , and Inuit. About NACCA NACCA, the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association, is a network of over 50 Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) dedicated to stimulating economic growth for all Indigenous people in Canada . These efforts increase social and economic self-reliance and sustainability for Indigenous people and communities nationwide. Related Links
Zawya
20-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
H.E. Alia Al Mazrouei briefs Italian women entrepreneurs on UAE's supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurship & SME growth
Abu Dhabi: Her Excellency Alia Bint Abdulla Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship, participated in a panel discussion titled ' Entrepreneurship Without Borders,' hosted by Claudia Parzani, Chair of the Milan Stock Exchange. The session, held as part of the third edition of Investopia Europe in Milan, brought together over 100 Italian women entrepreneurs. Discussions focused on developments in the business landscapes of the UAE and Italy and highlighted the importance of empowering women in economic and commercial sectors. During the session, H.E. Alia Al Mazrouei highlighted the UAE's supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurship and SME growth, and its role in attracting entrepreneurs from around the world. She also emphasized the country's flexible economic legislation that facilitates the establishment of startups across various sectors and economic activities. Her Excellency noted that the UAE and Italy enjoy a strong and multifaceted economic partnership, underpinned by shared visions for the future economy, including digital and technological sectors. This alignment presents a valuable opportunity to deepen cooperation in the field of entrepreneurship, in a manner that supports the strategic goals of both nations. Her Excellency said: 'Under the directives of its wise leadership, the UAE has made it a priority to enhance women's contribution across various economic sectors by encouraging them to launch pioneering projects that drive economic development and support the achievement of greater gender balance. By the end of 2024, the number of commercial licenses held by Emirati women entrepreneurs in the UAE market exceeded 135,000 - reflecting a 23 per cent increase. In the first half of the year alone, nearly 2,000 new companies were established by Emirati businesswomen, underscoring their growing presence and active role in the national business community.' Her Excellency added: 'Small and medium-sized enterprises are a key driver of growth and sustainability of the national economy. They play a pivotal role in advancing the UAE's transition toward a knowledge- and innovation-based economic model, while supporting the objectives of the 'We the UAE 2031' vision, which aims to double the national GDP to AED 3 trillion by the next decade. In support of this goal, the UAE has launched a range of initiatives and strategies designed to provide SMEs with access to financing, resources, and capabilities that foster business development and global market entry. These efforts are further bolstered by the UAE's strategic geographic location, serving as a vital link between East and West, and North and South.' In this context, Her Excellency briefed attendees on the wide range of services and incentives offered by the UAE's National Program for SMEs, which includes over 25 support measures for entrepreneurs. She also highlighted the 'Future 100' initiative, along with other key components of the UAE's entrepreneurship ecosystem, which are designed to enhance national competitiveness and raise the success rate of entrepreneurs from 30% to 50% by 2031. Among the most prominent initiatives are the Riyada Fund and the UAE Entrepreneurship Council. Furthermore, H.E. Alia Al Mazrouei invited Italian women entrepreneurs to expand their businesses and launch new ventures in the UAE across various economic sectors, encouraging them to seize the wide array of opportunities available. She emphasized that the UAE has ranked first globally for the fourth consecutive year in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor 2024-2025 and has been recognized as the top destination for entrepreneurship and SMEs among 56 economies worldwide. Today, SMEs represent 95 per cent of all companies operating in the UAE. Her Excellency noted that the UAE Ministry of Economy is actively promoting digital transformation and the adoption of advanced technologies by SMEs, with a particular emphasis on artificial intelligence. This priority area is being advanced in collaboration with relevant ministries and authorities at both regional and global levels, reflecting the central role of technology and innovation as key pillars of the UAE's future economy. For further information, please contact: Orient Planet Group (OPG) Email: media@ Website:
