Latest news with #CIP
Indian Express
21 hours ago
- Politics
- Indian Express
Delhi Confidential: Suitable space
A WEEK after Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi conceded that the Congress 'fell short' of understanding the issues faced by OBCs, and that the party would work at 'double speed' for the community going forward, the OBC department of AICC has got an electric display board proclaiming the department and its headquarters. The design of the board has become a topic of discussion at the party office as it features symbols like the Ashoka Chakra and the Gandhian Charkha. The department is looking for a suitable space to install the board so it can grab maximum eyeballs. Taste Of Bengal TMC MPs are 'delighted' with a change of menu at the Parliament cafeterias. The reason: 'grilled Bhetki fish'. Sharing the 'good news', MPs of the West Bengal-based party said 'grilled Bhetki' was a welcome change at the Parliament cafeterias as so far only Basa fish was served, which most Bengali fish eaters found 'flavourless'. The rate of the Bhetki dish — `350 per plate — also meant TMC MPs could enjoy it at an 'affordable price'. Surprise Invite Uttar Pradesh Horticulture Minister (Independent Charge) Dinesh Pratap Singh has written to PM Narendra Modi, inviting him to lay the foundation stone of the International Potato Centre's (CIP) South Asia Regional Centre (CSARC) in Agra. The letter has taken several officials at the Centre by surprise. The Union Cabinet had only approved the proposal to establish CSARC on June 25, and Singh sent the letter to the PM the very day. The minister extended the invitation even before the formal MoU between the Union Ministry of Agriculture and CIP was signed, and without any formal proposal yet from the UP Chief Minister's Office for such a ceremony, it is learnt.
The Star
a day ago
- Business
- The Star
Portugal questions fairness of EU-U.S. tariff deal, warns of high costs, limited gains
LISBON, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Portugal has raised concerns over the recently concluded tariff agreement between the European Union (EU) and the United States, describing it as a limited improvement that falls short of true free trade and comes at a steep cost for both sides. The Ministry of Economy and Territorial Cohesion acknowledged in a statement that the deal -- fixing U.S. tariffs on European goods at 15 percent -- may bring a certain degree of predictability. However, it stressed that "nothing replaces the freedom of trade" and reaffirmed Portugal's commitment to actively push for the gradual elimination of tariffs and other trade barriers. The Confederation of Portuguese Business (CIP) expressed only "relative relief" at the deal, emphasizing that the price to pay is "high for both parties." "When a hurricane is expected, one feels happy with a mere storm," said CIP Director-General Rafael Alves Rocha. Still, he warned that the agreed tariff levels mark a significant increase from the current average of around 2.5 percent, representing a setback for exporters and highlighting the asymmetry in the EU's and U.S.' tariff structures. According to CIP, the outcome is unbalanced and disadvantages European producers compared to the average customs duties imposed by the EU on American imports. The Portuguese government has responded to potential negative consequences with financial support measures for domestic businesses. It pointed to the "Reforcar" program launched in April, aimed at cushioning companies from adverse trade impacts. So far, 14,000 applications have been submitted under the BPF INVEST EU credit line, totaling 3.2 billion euros (3.71 billion U.S. dollars), with 2.5 billion euros approved and 1.6 billion euros already disbursed. Additionally, a specific credit line -- BPF INVEST EXPORT PT -- was created to support export-oriented SMEs. It has received 2,600 applications worth 1.3 billion euros, of which 600 million euros have been approved. As part of the new PT2030 incentives framework, a non-refundable grant line has also been launched to promote internationalization, targeting joint projects and collaborative strategies in external markets. The ministry announced that the first public calls for collective internationalization initiatives will open on July 31. Despite these support measures, Lisbon's cautious tone and the business community's criticism reflect broader doubts within Portugal about the long-term benefits of the EU-U.S. trade arrangement -- raising questions about whether short-term stability has come at the expense of long-term economic balance. (1 euro = 1.16 U.S. dollar)
See - Sada Elbalad
5 days ago
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
Egyptian Pound Hits Highest Level against Dollar in 2025
Taarek Refaat The Egyptian pound (EGP) has climbed to its highest level against the U.S. dollar since November 2024, sparking speculation about whether the rally will continue, possibly pushing the currency higher versus dollar. Currently trading near EGP 49 per dollar, the pound has recovered from levels above EGP 51 just weeks ago. The currency's recent strength is attributed to a mix of global capital movements and increased investor confidence in Egypt's economy. The pound's appreciation is partially a result of broader global economic trends. As investors move capital away from the U.S. dollar toward emerging markets and certain developed economies such as those in Europe, currencies like the Egyptian pound are seeing upward pressure. This reallocation has led to greater inflows into Egyptian treasury bills and instruments such as Currency Investment Products (CIP), contributing to the pound's strengthening. Domestically, several structural improvements are helping support the currency. The return of both direct and portfolio foreign investments has played a critical role in boosting confidence in Egypt's macroeconomic outlook. Recent U.S. policies, including tariff escalations and mounting political pressure on the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates, have encouraged investors to look beyond American markets. Egypt has emerged as a beneficiary of this shift, attracting notable investments from China and Turkey in recent months. Additional support is expected from continued engagement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The Egyptian government has confirmed that reviews four through six of its $8 billion loan program will be completed by September and October, which could unlock further disbursements. So far, Egypt has received $3.5 billion under the program. At the same time, discussions are underway with Kuwait to convert $4 billion in deposits held by Egypt's central bank into direct investments, a move widely seen as a strategic shift in bilateral economic relations. In parallel, Qatar is preparing to invest in Egypt's tourism sector, particularly in North Coast and New Alamein projects, while Saudi Arabia is boosting investments in infrastructure and energy development. Despite ongoing disruptions in the Red Sea, early signs of recovery in Suez Canal traffic are contributing to a more stable foreign exchange environment. Although canal revenues fell by 54% year-on-year during the first nine months of 2025, recent crossings by large vessels are viewed as a positive signal. At the same time, tourism and remittances from Egyptians abroad are providing critical foreign currency inflows. Improved security and logistical conditions in key tourist destinations are also aiding recovery in these sectors. Annual inflation dropped to 14% by the end of June, coinciding with the pound's strengthening trend. Lower inflation has enhanced Egypt's attractiveness to foreign investors, especially those interested in high-yield government debt instruments. The result has been the return of short-term capital, often referred to as 'hot money,' as investors seek to capitalize on Egypt's relatively high interest rates before any potential rate cuts by the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) in the fourth quarter. Analysts estimate that the Egyptian pound remains undervalued by approximately 10%, even after its recent gains. While some international institutions have suggested the pound may be undervalued by as much as 30–40%, a more conservative view places its fair value at around EGP 44.5–45 per dollar. This perceived undervaluation offers upside potential for foreign investors, reducing concerns about exit risks and further strengthening Egypt's external debt profile. read more CBE: Deposits in Local Currency Hit EGP 5.25 Trillion Morocco Plans to Spend $1 Billion to Mitigate Drought Effect Gov't Approves Final Version of State Ownership Policy Document Egypt's Economy Expected to Grow 5% by the end of 2022/23- Minister Qatar Agrees to Supply Germany with LNG for 15 Years Business Oil Prices Descend amid Anticipation of Additional US Strategic Petroleum Reserves Business Suez Canal Records $704 Million, Historically Highest Monthly Revenue Business Egypt's Stock Exchange Earns EGP 4.9 Billion on Tuesday Business Wheat delivery season commences on April 15 News Israeli-Linked Hadassah Clinic in Moscow Treats Wounded Iranian IRGC Fighters Arts & Culture "Jurassic World Rebirth" Gets Streaming Date News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Arts & Culture South Korean Actress Kang Seo-ha Dies at 31 after Cancer Battle Business Egyptian Pound Undervalued by 30%, Says Goldman Sachs Sports Get to Know 2025 WWE Evolution Results News "Tensions Escalate: Iran Probes Allegations of Indian Tech Collaboration with Israeli Intelligence" News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks
Time of India
22-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
ISARC, CIP join hands to boost sustainable rice-potato systems
Varanasi: In a step toward transforming rice–potato cropping systems into more sustainable and climate-resilient models, the International Rice Research Institute – South Asia Regional Centre (ISARC) and the International Potato Center (CIP) jointly convened a multi-stakeholder consultation in Varanasi recently. The consultation focused on advancing a prototype innovation designed to enable Potato Zero Tillage with Rice Straw Mulch (PZTM)—a conservation agriculture technique that uses rice straw as natural mulch for potato cultivation, eliminating the need for intensive tillage. At the heart of the discussion was a novel combine harvester prototype that integrates rice harvesting and zero-till potato planting in a single mechanised pass, addressing key bottlenecks in residue management and timely planting. The meeting brought together stakeholders from government bodies, CGIAR centres, private agri-tech firms, food processing companies, universities, and farmer groups. Uttar Pradesh, being India's largest potato-producing state and a major rice producer, was highlighted as a key geography for piloting the innovation. BL Meena, additional chief secretary, Horticulture, govt of Uttar Pradesh, expressed strong support for scaling up PZTM through convergence with existing horticulture and farm mechanisation schemes. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Libas Purple Days Sale Libas Undo "This consultation is unique, with farmers directly participating in machinery review and development," said Sudhanshu Singh, Director, ISARC. "The prototype has the potential to revolutionise Eastern India's rice–potato systems by reducing turnaround time, conserving water, and improving soil health." Neeraj Sharma, Country Head of CIP, underscored the role of women farmers, regional disparities in mechanisation, and the urgent need to tackle crop residue burning. He stressed public–private partnerships and system-based innovations to scale sustainable potato production. Participants included representatives from PepsiCo, McCain, Yanmar, Khalsa, researchers from Punjab University, and farmers from rice–potato growing states. Discussions centred on prototype design, field feasibility, and pathways to validation and scaling.
The Citizen
16-07-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Primrose innovator secures top spot at youth awards
Twenty-two-year-old Sicelo Sibeko from Primrose recently came third in the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission) CIPC Youth Awards for his innovation that tackles intellectual property (IP) protection and counterfeit goods, a milestone he describes as unforgettable. 'Placing third at the CIPC Youth Awards remains one of my most unforgettable milestones. It was an incredible moment being recognised on a national platform for something I've poured time, energy and passion into. 'When I received the call confirming I was among the top three, I was overcome with emotion; tears of joy were the only way to express what I felt,' said Sibeko. ALSO READ: Women of influence get recognition at 2025 Women Awards The recognition was humbling and empowering. 'While it was gratifying to be acknowledged, it also reminded me that this is just the beginning. The journey to making IP protection more accessible, especially for young, under-resourced innovators, is far from over. 'The award gave me a renewed sense of responsibility to continue building, improving and advocating for real, impactful solutions.' Sibeko's award-winning innovation, SG Maziyah Enterprise IP Vault, is a digital platform that bridges the gap in IP protection. It provides a secure digital footprint from the moment an idea is uploaded, offering fast, reliable and tamper-proof evidence of innovation. This system makes it significantly harder for others to steal or falsely claim ownership, especially during crucial stages, such as pitching to investors or forming partnerships. While similar technologies exist, Sibeko's focus is on affordability, accessibility and usability for creators often excluded from traditional IP systems. ALSO READ: Central Gauteng Athletics awards sportsmen and women Some of the platform's advanced features remain under wraps as he finalises patent protection, but he promises exciting developments ahead. 'I chose to focus on IP and counterfeit goods because I've seen how many young and small-scale innovators lose their ideas simply due to a lack of resources or awareness. 'Often, those with more influence or funding take credit for innovations that aren't theirs, leaving the true creators unrecognised and unrewarded,' he explained. 'Meanwhile, counterfeit goods continue to saturate the market, damaging the credibility of genuine entrepreneurs and eroding trust in local products. I wanted to create something that not only safeguards original ideas but also restores faith in authentic innovation, especially for those often overlooked.' One of the biggest challenges Sibeko faced was balancing advanced technology with user-friendliness. 'I aimed to build a powerful yet user-friendly and affordable tool for youth, informal entrepreneurs and small businesses. Limited funding also posed obstacles, slowing progress at times. But through strategic planning, research and assembling a committed team, we stayed focused and resilient.' Sibeko believes platforms like the CIPC Youth Awards are essential to nurturing SA's young talent. ALSO READ: Local players scoop awards in annual event 'They offer much-needed visibility, encouragement and validation, particularly for those who lack access to major networks or funding. These platforms don't just celebrate innovation; they open doors to mentorship, collaboration, and investment.' 'Being recognised nationally boosted my innovation and confidence. It reaffirmed that the problem I'm solving is real and that my solution can make a difference.' Balancing entrepreneurship with academics hasn't been easy, but Sibeko has managed to excel in both areas. He was honoured with the 2022 NWU Silver Wings Student Award, became a two-time Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education semi-finalist, and was a top-six finalist in the 2024 Schneider Electric Battery Innovation Challenge. 'In 2023, I was also the only SA finalist in the Work Across Borders programme, an achievement I carry with pride,' he added. The next phase for the SG Maziyah Enterprise IP Vault includes finalising the prototype and securing complete patent protection. A pilot phase will follow, targeting youth entrepreneurs and informal innovators. ALSO READ: Caxton journos represent at national awards 'We're also exploring strategic partnerships with universities, innovation hubs and small business support institutions. 'We aim to embed IP Vault into existing entrepreneurship development programmes, making IP protection a foundational step in every innovator's journey.' Sibeko urges aspiring innovators to educate themselves about IP protection early and take practical steps, even on a limited budget. 'Start by documenting your ideas thoroughly. Date everything. Avoid oversharing publicly or with people you don't trust. Use non-disclosure agreements where possible and explore affordable IP options like provisional patents or copyright registration.' Based on his own experience, he adds, 'Don't wait for the perfect moment or big funding to start protecting your work. Use what you have, stay consistent and keep learning. ALSO READ: Best of Ekurhuleni Readers Choice Awards 2024 'Surround yourself with people who support your vision because, with the right network and persistence, your idea can go far. 'My broader ambition is to build scalable, inclusive solutions that empower under-resourced innovators not only in SA but across the continent. 'Through IP Vault, I hope to enable creators to protect, own, and benefit from their ideas, without financial or legal barriers.' 'Ultimately, I want to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs who understand the value of their creativity and are equipped with the tools to protect and grow it.' To those with ideas but few resources, he says, 'Don't give up. The journey isn't easy, and not everyone can be trusted with your innovation. That's why protection must come first. 'Reach out to the CIPC via their verified platforms or email and ask how to begin the IP registration process. It's a vital step to make sure your idea remains yours.' His long-term dream is for SG Maziyah Enterprise IP Vault to become the go-to platform for accessible and affordable IP protection and ownership validation in SA. Sibeko is working on launching the company's website and building an official online presence. For now, those interested in learning more, collaborating or offering support can contact him on 072 881 9259 or [email protected], Instagram: @Sicelo674 and TikTok: @maziyah_gman Sibeko is pursuing his qualification to become a chartered accountant and hopes to combine his financial expertise with his entrepreneurial journey to help others develop sustainable, market-ready innovations. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
