Europe is facing disruptions in its energy supply. The Middle East and Africa are grappling with grain shortages. And pretty much everyone is struggling to get their hands on semiconductors. As disruptions to the flow of vital commodities become more common, economies and businesses have important choices to make. The most fundamental seems to be […]]]>
Europe is facing disruptions in its energy supply. The Middle East and Africa are grappling with grain shortages. And pretty much everyone is struggling to get their hands on semiconductors. As disruptions to the flow of vital commodities become more common, economies and businesses have important choices to make. The most fundamental seems to be whether to withdraw from global integration or reinvent it.
For many, the temptation to retreat can be strong. From Russia’s war on Ukraine to the Sino-American rivalry, the global order is increasingly contested, and when value chains are global, a single disruption can ripple across the planet. But, as we show in a new research paper, exiting these value chains would not be as easy as one might assume.
For decades, the world has sought rapid and comprehensive economic integration – and with good reason. By enabling greater specialization and economies of scale, global value chains have improved efficiency, lowered prices, and increased the range and quality of goods and services available. By supporting economic growth, it has boosted incomes and employment – but not for all – helping to lift people out of poverty.
With integration came interdependence. As we show in our article, no region today is close to self-sufficiency. Every major region of the world imports more than 25% of at least one major resource or manufactured good.
In many cases, the numbers are much higher. Latin America, sub-Saharan Africa, Eastern Europe and Central Asia import more than 50% of the electronic products they need. The European Union imports more than 50% of its energy resources. The Asia-Pacific region imports more than 25% of its energy resources. Even North America, which has fewer highly dependent areas, depends on imports of resources and manufactured goods.
This undoubtedly generates risks, especially when it comes to goods whose production is highly concentrated. For example, most of the world’s lithium and graphite – both of which are used in electric vehicle (EV) batteries – are largely mined from three or fewer countries. Natural graphite is highly concentrated not because of reserves, but because over 80% is refined in China.
Similarly, the Democratic Republic of the Congo extracts 69% of the world’s cobalt, Indonesia represents 32% of the world’s nickel and Chile produces 28% of the world’s copper. A disruption of supply from any of these sources would have far-reaching consequences.
The question is whether countries – and businesses – can mitigate these risks without giving up the myriad benefits of global trade. Some are already embracing diversification. Many consumer electronics companies have expanded their manufacturing footprint in India and Vietnam to reduce their reliance on China and access emerging markets. Similarly, the US, EU, South Korea, China and Japan have all announced measures to increase domestic production of semiconductors. Although semiconductors account for less than 10% of total trade, products directly or indirectly dependent on them account for around 65% of all goods exports.
But diversification can take time and often requires a large initial investment. Minerals – among the most concentrated commodities in the global system – are a good example. As the International Energy Agency has pointed out, the development of new deposits of critical minerals has historically taken more than 16 years on average.
It’s not just about developing new mines; countries also need to build processing capacity and find workers with the necessary skills. And all of this must be done in a way that mitigates the considerable environmental impact of mining and processing.
Innovation can enable players to circumvent these obstacles. Already, efforts are being made to develop technologies that rely less on natural graphite, and electric vehicle makers are experimenting with approaches that use less cobalt, if at all. Faced with rising palladium prices, the multinational chemical company BASF has developed a new catalyst technology allowing partial substitution by platinum.
Another way to build resilience can be to change our approach to sourcing. Businesses can work with each other and with governments, through public-private partnerships, to leverage their joint purchasing power, bolster their supplies of vital goods and help build more sustainable economies.
Models of this cooperation are already emerging. The Canada Growth Fund aims to use public funds to attract private capital to accelerate the deployment of technologies needed to decarbonize the economy, including increasing domestic production of critical materials like zinc, cobalt and rare earth elements. And the First Movers Coalition – comprising more than 50 private companies around the world – has pledged to use its collective buying power to create markets for innovative clean technologies in eight hard-to-reduce sectors.
Such strategies show that we can mitigate risk and build economic resilience without abandoning the interdependence that has lifted more than a billion people out of poverty in recent decades. Rather than trying to withdraw from the global economy, we must reinvent it.
Copyright : Project Syndicate
— Contact us at [email protected]
Samsung Electronics CEO met with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and announcement a $850 million investment to manufacture semiconductor components in Thai Nguyen province on August 5, 2022. The investment will make Vietnam one of only four countries – alongside South Korea, China and the United States – to produce semiconductors for the world’s […]]]>Samsung Electronics CEO met with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and announcement a $850 million investment to manufacture semiconductor components in Thai Nguyen province on August 5, 2022.
The investment will make Vietnam one of only four countries – alongside South Korea, China and the United States – to produce semiconductors for the world’s largest memory chip maker. Vietnam’s selection of more developed locations speaks volumes about the country’s growing importance in the semiconductor value chain.
Vietnam is not new to the semiconductor industry. The country’s first semiconductor factory, Z181, was established in 1979 to produce and export semiconductor components to the Eastern Bloc during the Cold War.
The collapse of the Soviet Union and subsequent trade embargo ended the country’s first attempt to develop semiconductor capabilities. Yet the desire to enter the global semiconductor value chain persists. For Vietnamese leaders, semiconductors represent both economic opportunities and national security interests.
Entering the semiconductor value chain means operating a global market is expected to reach US$1.4 trillion by 2029 with a compound annual growth rate of 12%. It also strengthens local skills and expertise, promotes the development of associated high-tech industries and increases national added value in electronics production.
Semiconductors are also a matter of national security. Reliance on imported chips makes the country’s critical infrastructure vulnerable to supply chain disruptions and hidden malware risks. The sweep of the United States ban on exporting chips over China raises concerns in Vietnam about whether its political differences with the West could lead to a similar fate in the future.
Hanoi has adopted a two-pronged strategy to reduce its vulnerability to these external threats. It maintains diplomatic neutrality amid geopolitical conflicts while gradually building national capabilities in all three stages of the semiconductor value chain – chip design, front-end manufacturing, and back-end assembly and testing.
Vietnam’s industrial and technological policies have always accorded the highest incentives for high-tech projects, including reduction of corporate tax and exemption from sales tax and land rent.
In 2020, as tech companies continued to exit ChinaVietnam has established a special working group woo high-tech investments by offering tailored incentives beyond those specified by existing laws. Various Vietnamese prime ministers have met with leaders of global tech giants to encourage investments in semiconductors.
Generous incentives aren’t the only reason multinationals are pumping billions of dollars into Vietnam’s semiconductor ecosystem. One of Vietnam’s advantages over its regional neighbors is its pool of young engineering talent at a relatively lower cost.
Over 40% of Vietnamese college and university graduates major in science and engineering, and Vietnam has been among the top 10 countries with the most engineering graduates.
As the risks to put all its eggs in the basket of China increase, semiconductor companies see Vietnam as a promising option for their “China Plus One” strategy. The manufacturing cluster in the north of the country is only a 12-hour drive from Shenzhen, the manufacturing hub of China. This ensures minimal supply chain disruptions for those looking to diversify.
Vietnam also boasts one of the most open world economies, with 15 free trade agreements, a working environment and a relatively stable government with clear socio-economic development plans. The country’s geopolitical neutrality is another plus for tech companies looking for a low-risk location to produce and export.
The Vietnamese semiconductor scene is rapidly evolving at all stages of the value chain. Synopsys — a leader in chip design software — is changing its investment and engineering training from China to Vietnam. South Korean tech giant, Amkor Technology, signed an agreement in 2021 to establish a $1.6 billion semiconductor manufacturing plant in Bac Ninh province.
Intel recently channeled a an additional $475 million in its assembly and test plant in Vietnam which produces basic processors. Local tech companies have also spear their own ranges of low-end semiconductors for a wide range of applications. Such projects lay the groundwork for even more investments to come.
The next step for Vietnam is to go beyond attract foreign direct investment to integrate multinationals into its economy. Weaknesses in the country’s investment climate – including backward infrastructure, weak enforcement of intellectual property rights, cumbersome procedures, underdeveloped supplier networks and shortage of local skills – urgently need to be addressed.
Vietnam should leverage the resources and expertise of foreign investors to catalyze improvements in its semiconductor ecosystem. The recent training in chip design OK between Synopsys and Saigon Hi-Tech Park is a welcome step in this direction.
Another example is Samsung’s domestic supplier development program — run jointly with the Ministry of Industry and Trade — enabling many domestic suppliers to become internationally competitive.
What Vietnam shouldn’t do is try to pick winners to win sovereign capacity in semiconductors. Protecting local companies – especially public ones – from foreign competition while subsidizing their operations only perpetuates the inefficient use of national resources.
The policy should focus on creating a business environment that allows all potential winners, foreign and local, to thrive.
Phan Le and Hai Thanh Nguyen are economists at Vietnam’s Central Institute of Economic Management (CIEM).
This articlerepublished with permission, was first published by East Asia Forumwhich is based on the Crawford School of Public Policy within the College of Asia and the Pacific to Australian National University.
The CEOs of 55 African companies with a combined revenue of $150 billion on November 9, 2022, issued a statement pledging to climate action. The United Nations Global Compact helped rally these companies to issue the joint statement. In an interview with Kingsley Ighobor of Africa Renewal at COP27, UN Under-Secretary General and CEO of […]]]>The CEOs of 55 African companies with a combined revenue of $150 billion on November 9, 2022, issued a statement pledging to climate action. The United Nations Global Compact helped rally these companies to issue the joint statement. In an interview with Kingsley Ighobor of Africa Renewal at COP27, UN Under-Secretary General and CEO of United Nations Global Compact Sanda Ojiambo discussed, among other issues, the effects of climate change in Africa and why a growing number of African businesses are taking climate action. These are excerpts from the interview.
Why should African businesses care about climate change?
African businesses need to care about climate change for a number of reasons: First, the continent contributes the least to climate change but suffers the most from its effects. African CEOs tell us their companies are feeling the impact of the climate crisis in terms of input costs.
Second, it is still difficult to access finance related to renewable energy.
And third, because we are aware that climate catastrophe will continue to have the greatest impact on the African continent, business leaders fear that the present and future of business are at stake.
One of the things that resonated very strongly in September when we had the Global Business Initiative for Africa is that there is so much belief in Africa as a business and tourism destination. ‘investment ; it is important that we take proactive steps now to ensure that businesses thrive.
About 55 CEOs with revenues of around $150 billion and employing nearly a million workers today released a statement engage in the fight for the climate. What are the highlights of their statement?
Let me highlight why this is such an important step for us in the UN Global Compact. This is the first time that the private sector in North, South, East and West Africa has come together around the same issue. Thanks to the convening power we have as the UN, we have been able to bring this group together.
The statement covers two things: first, it adds to the voice call for responsibilitycalling on global actors to deliver on their commitments to ensure Africa’s climate sustainability.
Second, it is about their [CEOs] own commitment towards climate action within their companies, within their industries and for the continent.
So it’s basically a two-part piece. Let’s hold people accountable, but we’ll also do our part.
Let me highlight why this is such an important step for us in the UN Global Compact. This is the first time that the private sector in North, South, East and West Africa has come together around the same issue. Thanks to the convening power we have as the UN, we have been able to bring this group together.
How do these African companies connect their climate work to what their governments are doing?
Very important. Many of the business leaders present at COP27 are indeed part of government delegations because, as you know, these delegations are made up of both private and public sector representatives. Thus, companies contribute to nationally determined contributions. It is very clear that the private sector plays a role in the economic development of these countries.
Many of these companies have partners overseas, some of which are large multinationals. Are they able to engage these multinationals to get involved in climate action on the continent?
Let me turn the question around. I’ll tell you what we hear from most global companies. They say sometimes they’re not so sure what happens down the line because they don’t have full visibility into their supply chains. And that is their primary concern.
You can commit to taking climate action at your headquarters, but you don’t know what’s happening with the subsidiaries, as many of them are indigenous national companies.
So if anything they [multinationals] have to take care of their own supply chains and they want to be sure that the commitments they make at head office hold throughout the supply chain.
What do you think of the “just transition” because the business leaders mentioned it in their statement?
It depends on which side of the table we are sitting. What is “fair” or “equitable” depends on what you want to focus on. We see that there are real key business and economic decisions about what a just transition is.
I hear from many African business leaders and heads of state – people recognize that we are stopping exploiting fossil fuels and moving to green and renewable technologies. I don’t think that’s a disputed principle.
The thing is, it’s not that simple because of the high cost of financing renewables. And some countries may be in the midst of economic transitions to middle-income manufacturing economies. I think it can be fair and equitable when we understand the barriers to implementation.
The statement [by African CEOs] covers two things: first, it adds to the voice call for responsibility, calling on global actors to deliver on their commitments to ensure Africa’s climate sustainability. Second, it is about their [CEOs] own commitment towards climate action within their companies, within their industries and for the continent.
From the statement, it appears that African CEOs want a constructive and gradual divestment from fossil fuels.
What I do know is that private sector leaders have said that if financing and capital were available, it would be much easier to make these transitions. Business leaders tell me they don’t want to continue down a path that isn’t sustainable for their business and their country. What they are asking for is equitable access to the resources that will enable the transitions.
This is an objective of COP27 because Africa demands much more access to financing.
Which is very clear, and I heard this from the UN Secretary General [Antonio Guterres]is that there is a need to reform the global financial architecture.
We talk about access at the national level for savings, but in other discussions it is about access to finance for adaptation, resilience, etc. for the people. I think for African economies, it’s adaptation and resilience financing that really changes how businesses can build resilience.
How difficult was it to get all these CEOs to agree to adopt 27% renewable energy by 2030, given that they all have different types of businesses and their individual transitions may not proceed at the same pace?
Interestingly, when we first had a meeting and decided we wanted to do this [issue a statement]we actually said to the leaders, “let us know what you think is the most pressing emergency”.
The consensus was on the climate. It was very easy and quick. I think there was recognition that an important climate conference was being held on the continent, as well as the important role that climate action plays in business.
Now that the statement is out, what next?
Now that the statement is out, business leaders will be held to account. We asked them to lead climate action within their own companies and industries.
They will continue to build momentum around climate action.
Fifty-five companies have signed the declaration. This is not the end point. We want more companies to commit to climate action, follow the principles of the Global Compact, and ultimately be able to drive this change within their industries and countries.
Private sector leaders said that if finance and capital were accessible, it would be much easier to make these transitions. Business leaders tell me they don’t want to continue down a path that isn’t sustainable for their business and their country. What they are asking for is equitable access to the resources that will enable the transitions.
Do you have a way to monitor the climate actions of these companies?
First, companies that are part of the Global Compact are required to report to us annually on their progress in many areas, including climate.
Second, there are science-based methodologies to assess companies that have signed up to science-based climate goals or initiatives, and they are required to be transparent about their progress. So there are accountability mechanisms. But you know, the work doesn’t stop.
Now that we have issued a statement, we will continue to engage with business leaders. They are always accountable nationally, to their governments, to the world stage, to consumers, to their staff, etc.
How serious is the climate crisis in Africa?
I come from western Kenya. It is November and the weather is now very erratic. The last time I was in my village, people were saying that they didn’t know the harvest or planting season anymore. It’s because everything has changed. Even at the level of domestic sustenance, I can tell you that something is seriously wrong. This obviously extends much further to large-scale agriculture, which is essential for Kenya’s economy and for national and international income.
Moreover, we currently have the worst drought in Africa. It is very clear that we are feeling the effects of climate change.
In-house lawyers can provide valuable compliance advice if brought in at the right time. DujinGeneral Counsel and Deputy Chairman of China-based Hytera Communications, shares his insights for companies facing increased regulation in China and abroad IIndependent R&D and compliance management are two effective business tools that enable their holders to achieve healthy and high-quality development. […]]]>In-house lawyers can provide valuable compliance advice if brought in at the right time. DujinGeneral Counsel and Deputy Chairman of China-based Hytera Communications, shares his insights for companies facing increased regulation in China and abroad
IIndependent R&D and compliance management are two effective business tools that enable their holders to achieve healthy and high-quality development. In the process of globalization and development of Hytera to become a leading provider of dedicated communications and solutions, we have come to appreciate them warmly.
Therefore, over the past decade, while strengthening our R&D capabilities and improving our product competitiveness, we have also been committed to improving our compliance management in high-risk areas. This article shares our compliance methods and strategies from two main perspectives – anti-corruption and fraud, and export control compliance – based on Hytera’s proven practical experience.
Anti-corruption and anti-fraud
The fight against corruption and fraud mainly involves the implementation of a compliance check, the conduct of a compliance inspection, the collection of information on violations, the investigation of incidents or behavior of violation and the treatment of offenders.
General Counsel and Deputy Chairman
Hytera Communications
After gathering past cases of regulatory penalties for violations, as well as high-risk issues in industry practice, companies should establish their own compliance systems and guidelines in accordance with compliance requirements, and implement them. works in real-world business processes such as customer onboarding, expense reimbursement, travel management and corporate donations to ensure that every step of the business is supported by a strong and well-enforced regulatory foundation .
Establish a complaints and reporting mechanism. Past cases indicate that the majority of anti-corruption investigations are initiated following reports from employees or third parties. Therefore, encouraging employees and third parties to report known corrupt policies and conduct is an important part of any corporate anti-corruption and anti-fraud compliance system. Companies can provide internal reporting hotlines and require employees to indicate the reporting method in the signature box when sending external emails.
Reporting mechanisms of multinational enterprises should be established in both Chinese and English, or multiple languages, in order to receive reporting information worldwide. Upon receipt of these reports, the audit department should immediately investigate and verify relevant information, keep the identity of the whistleblower strictly confidential, and enhance both whistleblower protection and reward.
After investigating all the cases reflected in the reports, the audit department shall submit the results of the investigation of the confirmed cases to the company executives, and the employees involved will be punished in the form of dismissal, demotion or of public criticism depending on the gravity of the circumstances. Proper operation and guarantee mechanism, forming a closed internal loop, can effectively educate all employees on anti-corruption and anti-fraud compliance.
Advertise and provide anti-corruption compliance training. Multi-level and multi-position compliance training should fully cover the management, business departments and functional departments of the company in order to create a clear understanding of the importance of building an anti-corruption compliance system and to shed light on the existing compliance structure and operating mechanism, effectively sensitize the collective of employees to the issue.
Create a compliance ecosystem. While striving to educate employees about integrity and compliance, companies must also actively guide customers, suppliers and other stakeholders to act honestly and compete fairly. Any form of bribery or corruption should be rejected, and there should be zero tolerance for bribery and corruption by employees or company-related entities. Taking Hytera as an example, we have issued an anti-bribery and anti-corruption commitment letter for external suppliers, which is signed together with supply contracts.
In these documents, the companies may require their suppliers to undertake to comply strictly with the laws and regulations applicable to the cooperation, not to engage in acts that violate these laws and regulations, and to not solicit, accept, offer or give benefits from or to companies and their representatives other than those agreed upon in the contracts, including, but not limited to, discounts, rebates and financial benefits. In case of violation of these regulations, companies must immediately stop cooperating with the supplier concerned and take other reasonable measures.
Export Control Compliance
The importance of export control for national security, social public interest and sound business development is obvious. Setting up a solid and comprehensive compliance management system specifically for export control also requires years of dedicated practice.
Build a three-way compliance management and control system. With respect to business partners, companies must conduct trade sanctions screening on all individuals and entities such as customers, suppliers, service providers, employees, subcontractors, carriers, temporary workers , trainees and visitors; and, where applicable, perform due diligence on the compliance of universities, research institutes and others with access to company products, software or technology. In addition, relevant documents should be properly maintained to ensure company and partner compliance throughout export transactions and business cooperation.
In terms of products, companies are advised to systematically sort and analyze the controlled status of company product components, mark them according to controlled and restricted categories, and synchronously develop and implement a Internal IT system control process for controlled components. It is necessary to apply means of compliance control at several levels in the processes of supply, R&D and production, in order to effectively identify and strictly control the potential impact of these components on development and manufacturing. products, and communicate relevant compliance requirements to our sales staff. .
In terms of target markets, an adequate sales compliance process should be established to identify the risk level of foreign jurisdictions and the possible use of products after export. Within the restrictions of applicable laws and regulations on export control levels for different countries and corresponding licensing policies, companies should unify overall risk preference with compliance control requirements, and strictly enforce sanctions and embargo policies of target jurisdictions and the UN; build a multi-node interception and control mechanism and strictly prohibit the export of products to high-risk countries or regions without compliance review and approval by company management.
Integrate compliance requirements into business processes. From the origin of company materials, components and products, complete written records must be established for restricted items, including import price, export control information, use and intended method of use; and quantity of items used to manufacture or integrate products. In addition, it is recommended to record the purchase price of items to support analysis and judgment on products in later business processes.
Once the materials, components, or products have been processed and transformed into company products and the compliance analysis of those products is completed, whether restricted products or products comprised of or incorporated into restricted items will be sold or exported to foreign jurisdictions, the marketing department, when negotiating business cooperation opportunities, should first consider the risks of exporting to these countries and regions, and collect and organize all information about distributors and end users involved in the transaction process, which should be submitted to the Legal Department for review with cooperation agreements, sales agreements or other similar contracts.
When the marketing department signs a sales agreement, they must also sign an import and export control commitment letter with the counterparty, or use the company’s contract template containing trade compliance provisions, properly retain all signed sales agreements and their annexes, and strictly enforce records management requirements.
The legal department is responsible for reviewing the compliance of the company’s overseas customers, distributors and end users, and reporting the results of the review to the marketing department.
Globally promote the building of a culture of export control compliance. An end-to-end review of the company’s export control compliance process should be performed while export control compliance policies should be incorporated into the scope of mandatory know-how for all employees. A series of focused and targeted compliance trainings can be delivered on an ongoing basis to ensure employees are aware of export and import control policies, as well as compliance operations standards, related to their positions.
Fully implement breach reporting and investigation. All temporary and permanent employees are required to prevent violations from occurring and to report to the Legal Department when they become aware of violating events or behavior. Employees can report potential violations through their department’s Compliance Liaisons or directly to the Legal Department. In addition to anti-corruption, anti-fraud, and export control, a strong corporate compliance system also includes cybersecurity, data compliance, and many other important aspects.
A strong compliance-driven business ecosystem goes a long way toward ensuring a sustainable business future.
Two workers while cleaning the sewage chamber of a private manufacturing plant of a multinational corporation (MNC) in the Ranjangaon Industrial Zone in Pune have died of suspected suffocation, officials said on Saturday. According to Ranjangaon police station officials, workers employed by a major janitorial company were cleaning the reservoir using mechanized tools on Friday. […]]]>Two workers while cleaning the sewage chamber of a private manufacturing plant of a multinational corporation (MNC) in the Ranjangaon Industrial Zone in Pune have died of suspected suffocation, officials said on Saturday.
According to Ranjangaon police station officials, workers employed by a major janitorial company were cleaning the reservoir using mechanized tools on Friday. However, one of them slipped into the 15-foot-deep tank and died. When the other worker tried to save him, he also died inside the tank by suffocation.
The deceased have been identified as Machindra Dagadu Kale (42) and Subhash Sukhdeo Ughade (35).
“The workers were working on the suction pipe after opening the chamber cover when one of them fell inside the tank. The other person also fell inside the chamber while saving the first,” said Ranjangaon Police Station Inspector Bhagwant Mandage. Police denied that the workers were involved in manual cleaning, banned under the ban on employment as manual scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act 2013.
Police booked the contractor and filed a First Information Report (FIR) under Section 304, which relates to negligent causing death, of the IPC.
Earlier on October 21, three workers died of suspected suffocation while cleaning the chamber of a sewage treatment plant (STP) at a private housing company in Wagholi, the suburb recently merged with municipal boundaries of the city of Pune.
JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) – Active support for the creation of a viable green hydrogen economy in South Africa and around the world, as well as strong support for a “just energy transition”, is highlighted in Anglo American Platinum’s first climate change report. The report outlines the JSE-listed mining and trading company’s role as a supplier of […]]]>JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) – Active support for the creation of a viable green hydrogen economy in South Africa and around the world, as well as strong support for a “just energy transition”, is highlighted in Anglo American Platinum’s first climate change report.
The report outlines the JSE-listed mining and trading company’s role as a supplier of platinum group metals (PGMs) and critical base metals to enable a cleaner, greener and more sustainable world with a strong environmental, social and governance (ESG) credentials.
The full scope of the response to climate change is described, including plans to improve energy efficiency and carbon neutrality across operations and the ambition to reduce scope 3 emissions by 50 % by 2040.
The structures in place to ensure that climate change is integrated into decision-making processes and how it fits into the capital allocation framework are also detailed.
“In line with our strategic priority to be a leader in ESG, we expect the role we play in helping to create a green future to create significant value for all of our stakeholders,” said the CEO. from Anglo Platinum. Natasha Viljoen said in a statement to Weekly mining.
PGMs are the key to the mix of energy solutions that will make global decarbonization possible.
“The quality of the ore bodies entrusted to us, which are significant resources with long mine lives and low cost operations, together with our disciplined capital allocation, positions us well to deliver sustainable production and ensure to our customers the responsible standards we meet.
“Our portfolio remains financially resilient in low-carbon pathways, which helps us ensure that future generations will continue to benefit from the metals we produce,” says Viljoen.
The contribution to a “just energy transition” comes in the form of jobs, community support and produced PGMs and base metals.
Beyond operations, Anglo Platinum is committed to market development to expand the number of PGM applications in emission-free transport and green power generation.
Multi-jurisdictional initiatives are being rolled out to promote the adoption of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) for commercial purposes, particularly in the UK, Europe, USA, China and South Africa.
These initiatives aim to accelerate the adoption of heavy-duty FCEVs by aligning end-user demand locations and specifications with the provision of suitable vehicles, as well as access to required hydrogen infrastructure along major freight routes.
Similar multi-jurisdictional initiatives are currently underway to increase adoption of FCEVs for commercial and passenger light-duty vehicles.
COMPUTER CHIPS CONTAINING DRIVEN PGMs
Research and ventures aimed at accelerating the adoption of spintronics containing PGMs and other forms of memory electronics in multiple end uses to encourage low-loss computing applications continue.
This includes funding research into new semiconductor materials involving platinum, palladium and iridium for memory devices, and launching a new software technology company that simplifies the adoption of hardware using these memory devices.
With Northwestern University Illinois, USA, new computer chips containing PGMs are being tested which will dramatically increase computing speed while greatly reducing electricity consumption and increasing battery life. This presents a huge market opportunity given that computer chips are present in many electronic devices.
BATTERY AND STORAGE
Adding PGM to batteries helps improve their performance and is seen as potentially becoming a huge market opportunity and the development of PGM-compatible lithium batteries, primarily through its investment in Lion Battery Technologies, continues. Industry’s ability to create new materials and technologies such as fit-for-purpose additive manufacturing and PGM alloys targeting multiple applications continues to be expanded.
CARBON NEUTRAL RAW MATERIALS
Two new ventures have been launched alongside Deep Science Ventures – Mission Zero Technologies, which is developing exceptionally low-cost technology to capture carbon dioxide (CO2) from air, and Supercritical Solutions which is developing technology that makes low-cost green hydrogen from electricity and heat and under pressure. These two companies have secured multiple investments for others as well as technology evaluation agreements from multiple clients. Other ideas and businesses are explored and tested as part of the business creation program. The companies and ideas that have been launched in this space complement more advanced companies backed by AP Ventures, such as Greyrock and Infinium that use hydrogen and CO2 to manufacture high-value chemicals and fuels, thereby closing the carbon loop.
WASTE AND POLLUTION CONTROL
The potential role of PGMs in removing contaminants from industrial process waste gases that are critical to economic growth and the continued prosperity of society is being investigated. Work is underway with Yibai, a Chinese startup that uses platinum-based catalysts to combat water and air pollution.
ADVOCACY FOR A LOW-CARBON WORLD
Work to inform and promote the transition to a low-carbon economy in markets continues, as well as collaboration in support of technology-neutral policy and regulatory environments, particularly where PGMs can contribute.
In the UK, in addition to supporting existing associations, membership of the Beyond2050 Hydrogen Strategy Now campaign group has been adopted, as well as working to help the UK government establish and publish a UK-wide hydrogen strategy -United. Anglo Platinum is also a member of the UK Government’s Hydrogen Task Force for the 2020 Deployment Roadmap, supporting the Ministerial Hydrogen Advisory Board.
In China, the company made keynote presentations at the annual co-sponsored fuel cell vehicle convention. It has stepped up its participation in multi-city cluster FCEV demonstration programs and carbon/hydrogen sector integration to support China’s carbon neutral ambition.
Despite a limited presence in the United States, the dynamics of hydrogen and climate change at the federal and state level continue to be monitored through membership in the California Fuel Cell Partnership Association and the US Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association (FCHEA). In 2021, Anglo Platinum became a founding member of the Hydrogen Forward Coalition, an end-to-end value chain of representatives coming together to advance hydrogen in the United States.
Over the past six months, exciting developments on the political front have included the approval by the US House of Representatives of a ten-year tax credit to produce clean hydrogen. Through FCHEA, Anglo Platinum has advocated focusing on total system cost instead of relying primarily on PGM savings to support the clean hydrogen electrolysis program.
Viljoen is Anglo American’s representative on the Hydrogen Council, which was launched in 2017 to bring together the CEOs of more than 100 multinational companies. The council acts as a conduit for international corporate efforts on hydrogen.
Anglo Platinum’s membership of Hydrogen Europe involves a partnership with the European Commission through the Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking to support research, technology development and demonstration activities in technologies fuel cells and hydrogen in Europe.
There are rare moments in history when investors are offered the opportunity to participate in the growth of ground-breaking technology emerging on the ground floor – as well as the company leading the charge. Graphene is that industry. And the confluence of advances in nanotechnology, chemistry, and manufacturing processes are positioning graphene to become an […]]]>There are rare moments in history when investors are offered the opportunity to participate in the growth of ground-breaking technology emerging on the ground floor – as well as the company leading the charge. Graphene is that industry. And the confluence of advances in nanotechnology, chemistry, and manufacturing processes are positioning graphene to become an invaluable raw material in the manufacturing and functionality of an unlimited range of products in nearly every industry.
Most industries have been subjected to disruptive innovations that have changed them for the better, or have been relegated to the dustbin of history. Graphene has been around for years and was produced primarily by mining graphite, a capital-intensive and often environmentally destructive process. Although the end products are often referred to as “graphene”, they are usually thin strips of graphite.
Graphene is a “super-material”
Graphene is considered a “super-material” stronger than steel, harder than diamond and more conductive than copper. It is a two-dimensional, one-atom-thick sheet of hexagonally coordinated carbon atoms. The wonderful thing about graphene is that it can be infused into existing products and technologies. This improves and/or increases their performance characteristics and lifespan, providing users with economic and technological advantages over their competitors.
When added to existing products, graphene offers better electron mobility than silicon, superior electrical conductivity, and improved strength and flexibility. This makes the material ideal for clean energy technologies as it improves battery life, efficiency and longevity of solar panels.
HydroGraph and its revolutionary proprietary process
A company is about to disrupt the existing graphene industry. HydroGraph Clean Power Inc. (CSE: HG) has the rights to a proprietary process to manufacture Graphene with a 99.8% pure carbon content, with consistent and identical production quality. The purity of HydroGraph’s graphene has been verified by 5 separate laboratories and by the Graphene Council. It is the “green” technology that respects the environment par excellence. Currently, no company produces more than 50% graphene content and most produce less than 10%.
The Graphene Council has only awarded 4 companies worldwide the status of “verified graphene producer”, and one is Hydrograph. Of these four, only Hydrograph and Ceylon Graphene are in commercial production.
Ceylon Graphene currently produces 1.8 tonnes per year, while Hydrograph has just announced the expansion of its new commercial production cell and expect to have a production capacity of 10.0 tons per year by the end of the fourth quarter of 2022.
HydroGraph is currently in commercial production for potential customers in several addressable verticals. The new Hyperion graphene cell will put them on the right path to becoming one of the largest producers of graphene in the world. This title is currently held by NanoXplore (TSX: GRA) with 4,000 tons per year of production.
Target markets
HydroGraph’s Hyperion system is a scalable, modular, customizable and cost-effective reactor unit. As such, it produces almost 100% pure carbon content graphene with minimal energy consumption, no solvents and no carbon emissions. Which makes it one of the cleanest graphene producers in the world.
The Hyperion system can be adapted to produce fractal and reactive graphene, the unique responsive shell graphene can be used to chemically combine better with other products. HydroGraph’s graphene can be easily incorporated into an unlimited variety of products including lubricants, energy storage anodes, lithium batteries, solar cells, supercapacitors and functional coatings. HydroGraph’s initial target markets are resins, lubricants and coatings, which can be used to dramatically improve product durability, strength and performance.
According to Grandview Research, the global coatings market, which was valued at US$83 billion in 2021, is is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.5% through 2030. The US$128 billion lubricants industry in 2020 continue to grow at a CAGR of 3.7% until 2028, due to the growing demand for higher performance lubricants. The market for thermoplastic resins is expected to grow by 7.7% CAGR to reach US$40.06 billion by 2030, as they have a higher heat tolerance, greater fatigue resistance and are 30-40% lighter than aluminum. Vantage Market Research estimates Global Graphene Market to Reach $2.5 Billion by 2028.
HydroGraph’s strategy
The main reason for reaching out to these early markets is that HydroGraph CEO Mr. Stuart Jara has over 20 years of senior management experience and credibility in these industries. Jara understands the value proposition the company brings to enhance the many products produced by these industries. Its business strategy is to provide a steady stream of unique Graphene from HydroGraph to producers of a multitude of products, which in turn can enhance their product lines for their customers.
HydroGraph will not be in direct competition with its customers, but will be a valuable ally. Many companies in these industries are large multinational conglomerates with global reach, and they would essentially benefit from HydroGraph’s market penetration.
How does the HydroGraph Hyperion system work?
The Hyperion reactor was patented by Kansas State University and the rights granted to HydroGraph. Although the company’s current focus is bringing applications to market for customers, research and development is ongoing. An added benefit is that as new products are developed they may be patented by HydroGraph as its own intellectual property.
The nature of how the Hyperion reactor produces graphene is incredibly simple. A chamber is filled with a hydrocarbon and oxygen, the mixture is ignited with a small spark and graphene is formed. Once graphene is formed, syngas, which is a mixture of hydrogen and carbon monoxide, is left behind as a byproduct. This, in turn, can be used to produce both hydrogen and as a source material for many other organic chemicals.
The company currently has a 13,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Manhattan, Kansas near Kansas State University. A unique feature of HydroGraph’s low-cap Hyperion Systems is that they have the ability to build processing plants close to their customers’ sites, to provide them with a steady supply of graphene just in time. The reactors are modular and scalable, i.e. they can be implemented to meet customer volume requirements by installing the required number of reactors needed without the need for sophisticated re-engineering.
Extremely well placed
The graphene industry is in its infancy. HydroGraph is well positioned to become an industry leader due to its unique low-cost production process, which is expected to deliver high profit margins by delivering the highest quality graphene currently available. The product has an almost endless amount of potential applications – and in almost every industry.
The company’s management team has the experience and industry connections to break into the market. Initially, they focus on familiar industries, which can lead to rapid revenue growth and almost instant profitability once sales begin.
LILY: Hydrograph reports insider buying in recent $4.2 million funding
HydroGraph Clean Power Inc. has 154.9 million shares outstanding and a market cap of just $21.7 million. The company appears to have a competitive advantage within the industry, as it is the only producer of nearly pure graphene. They are also environmentally friendly, ticking all the ESG (environmental, social and governance) boxes that many consumers and investors are concerned about.
HydroGraph represents a potential ground floor opportunity for investors and shareholders in a company that can be positioned now to become an industry leader. And the graphene industry is likely to experience rapid exponential growth over the next ten years as many industries improve their products by incorporating graphene into them.
FULL DISCLOSURE: HydroGraph Clean Power is a customer of Canacom Group, the parent company of The Deep Dive. The author was paid to cover HydroGraph Clean Power on The Deep Dive, with The Deep Dive having full editorial control. Not a buy or sell recommendation. We may buy or sell Company securities at any time. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a title.
Automotive Airbag Market Expected to Reach USD 22 Billion by 2028 Luton, Bedfordshire, UK, Oct. 27, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Accuracy Consultancy, the market research and consultancy wing of Improve Digital Consultancy Private Limited has completed and published the final copy of the detailed research report on the Automotive Airbags Market “Automotive Airbag Market size […]]]>Automotive Airbag Market Expected to Reach USD 22 Billion by 2028
Luton, Bedfordshire, UK, Oct. 27, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Accuracy Consultancy, the market research and consultancy wing of Improve Digital Consultancy Private Limited has completed and published the final copy of the detailed research report on the Automotive Airbags Market
“Automotive Airbag Market size was valued at USD 9.67 Billion in 2019 and is projected to reach USD 22 Billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 9.58% from 2020 to 2028.”
Automotive airbags are the most commonly used protective devices in automobiles. Airbags are usually there to absorb the impact of a car crash and minimize damage, but some models can also inflate in the event of a fire or other dangerous situation. Automotive airbags have been an integral part of vehicles for decades, but as we continue to drive them more and more often, the need for more airbags is critical. It is essential to understand the application of airbags, their effect on our business and how they can be tested for reliability. Automotive airbags are designed to protect the occupant of an automobile in the event of a collision. The main difference between the two types of airbags is the deployment mechanism. Both types are installed in cars and trucks, but how they deploy depends on whether they are seat- or lap-mounted.
Get a sample PDF brochure:
https://accuracyconsultancy.com/reports/1736/automotive-airbags-market/#request-a-sample
Some Major Players of the Global Automotive Airbags Market Include: Aptiv Inc., Autoliv Inc., Calsonic Kansei Corporation (Mareli), Continental AG, Delphi Automotive, Denso Corporation, Hella GmbH & Co. KGaA, Hyundai Mobis Co. Ltd, INVISTA, Joyson Safety Systems, Magna International, Nihon Plastic Company Co .Ltd, Robert Bosch GmbH, Takata Corporation, Toyota Gosei, Valeo SA, ZF Friedrichshafen.
Market Script:
Key elements that are expected to propel the global automotive airbag market over the forecast period include increasing consumer preference for personal vehicles, stricter safety regulations for vehicles, government funding to improve vehicle safety vehicles, increased public awareness of vehicle safety features, increased demand for automotive airbags, including custom curtain airbags, and increased production of passenger vehicles. Additionally, government support for air pollution reduction and strict emission standards are likely to promote the use of e-vehicles. In the near future, this should provide industry players with exciting opportunities.
Regional outlook:
Europe has been a lucrative region in the automotive airbag market. The region is expected to hold a large share over the forecast period. The revenue potential was enriched by the production of cars with advanced occupant safety features, especially for cars made in Germany.
In terms of revenue, the automotive airbag market was dominated by Asia-Pacific in 2021. The revenue outlook was bolstered by the well-established automotive manufacturing sector in China and improvements in vehicle safety devices sold in India and Japan.
Within the scope of Automotive Airbag market segmentation, our study presents market analysis based on type, market application and historical data:
|
Attributes |
Details (current scenario) |
|
base year |
2020-2021 |
|
Historical data |
2019-2020 |
|
Forecast period |
2022-2028 |
|
Regions covered |
|
|
By type |
|
|
By request |
|
|
CAGR (XX%) |
9.58% (Analysis of the current market) |
|
Personalization available |
Yes, the report can be customized according to your needs. (Free 15% customization) |
|
delivery format |
PDF and Excel by e-mail |
Browse detailed search information with TOC:
https://accuracyconsultancy.com/reports/1736/automotive-airbags-market/
Key developments
January 2022 A definitive agreement to buy Wind River from TPG Capital, the private equity arm of multinational alternative asset management firm TPG, for $4.3 billion in cash was announced today by Aptiv PLC, a global technology company specializing in safer, greener and more connected mobility.
November 2021 One of the leading motorcycle and scooter producers, Piaggio Group, and Autoliv Inc. have established a strategic alliance. Collaboration focuses on creating motorized airbags for two-wheelers for added safety.
Important insights in the Automotive Airbags market research report:
– Underlying Macro and Microeconomic Factors Impacting Automotive Airbag Sales
– Basic overview of Automotive Airbags including market definition, classification and applications.
– Review of each market player based on mergers & acquisitions, R&D projects and product launches.
– Analysis of adoption trends and supply of automotive airbags in various industries.
– Significant regions and countries providing lucrative opportunities for market players.
Frequently asked questions about this report:
-
Who are the major market players active in the Automotive Airbags Market?
-
What is expected from the growth rate of the Automotive Airbags market?
-
What are the driving characteristics, restraints and opportunities of the market?
-
What are the latest trends in the Automotive Airbags market?
Check out our related key research updates:
tractor engine market
Tractor Engines supplies a range of products, including diesel engines and gasoline engines, which are used in utility vehicles such as construction and agricultural equipment. Like other heavy trucks, tractor engines are used to develop the power needed to operate the vehicle. Tractor engines are used for power sources for tractors. The engine is the first step in creating a modern tractor and can be used to make smaller hybrid tractors.
https://accuracyconsultancy.com/reports/4508/tractor-engines-market
Highway Driving Assistance Market
Highway Drive-Assist takes driving to a new level of luxury. With it, you get sophisticated features that keep you safe and entertained throughout your ride. And for those extra-long trips (so many miles away from home), the heart rate straps measure your pulse and monitor blood oxygen levels, so you can rest assured that all is well with your vehicle. .
https://accuracyconsultancy.com/reports/3227/highway-drive-assist-market
electric scooter market
Electric scooters and mopeds are the most popular alternative means of transport. Many people use electric scooters for commuting to work, for recreational rides, or as a training aid when learning to ride a bike. Electric scooters can be used by children and adults, making them great options for active families. Electric scooter companies like Razor create high-quality products that leverage innovative technology to deliver top-notch performance at an affordable price.
https://accuracyconsultancy.com/reports/1852/electric-scooters-market/
luxury car market
Luxury Cars is an image-driven web platform that brings together the brightest nameplates in the automotive industry. An unparalleled collection of fresh, high-quality images and authentic content, giving you a virtual in-car tour of some of the most expensive, exclusive and luxurious models on sale today.
https://accuracyconsultancy.com/reports/2998/luxury-cars-market
CONTACT: Irfan Tamboli (Head of Sales) - Exactitudeconsultancy Phone: + 1704 266 3234 [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/exactitudeconsultancy/
PETALING JAYA: L&P Global Bhd has received approval to list on Bursa Malaysia’s ACE market. The group formerly known as Berjayapak International Holdings Sdn Bhd aims to list on the stock exchange by the first quarter of 2023. L&P executive director–cum-CEO Ooi Lay Pheng said his impending listing exercise comes at an opportune time as […]]]>PETALING JAYA: L&P Global Bhd has received approval to list on Bursa Malaysia’s ACE market.
The group formerly known as Berjayapak International Holdings Sdn Bhd aims to list on the stock exchange by the first quarter of 2023.
L&P executive director–cum-CEO Ooi Lay Pheng said his impending listing exercise comes at an opportune time as the world moves into an endemic phase following the Covid-19 pandemic, the growth of the economy, as trade sectors international markets and e-commerce bode well for the demand for industrial wood packaging to support growing warehousing and logistics needs.
“Additionally, the ongoing trade war between the United States and China has led to an increase in the number of multinational companies relocating their China-based manufacturing facilities to countries such as Malaysia and Vietnam where we have operations.
“Through the use of proceeds from the listing, we will be able to strengthen our market presence and operational capabilities and have better financial flexibility to capitalize on the attractive prospects ahead,” she said. declared.
In conjunction with L&P’s upcoming listing, the initial public offering (IPO) exercise involves a public issuance of 113 million new shares, representing 20.2% of its expanded issued share capital at listing. 33.8 million existing shares or 6% of its expanded share capital upon listing will also be offered for sale by private placement to selected investors.
Of the 113 million new shares, 24 million or 4.3% will be made available to the Malaysian public, while 13 million shares or 2.3% will be made available to directors, employees and eligible people who have contributed to the success of the group.
The remaining 76 million shares (13.6%) will be made available to selected investors and bumiputra investors approved by the Malaysian Ministry of International Trade and Industry through private placements.
Alliance Islamic Bank Bhd is the lead advisor, sponsor and sole underwriter. Alliance Islamic Bank Bhd and Affin Hwang Investment Bank Bhd are the joint placement agents.
L&P and its subsidiaries are an integrated supplier of industrial packaging solutions. The group is primarily involved in the design and manufacture of industrial wood packaging products consisting of crates, crates and pallets. It also provides packaging services as well as trading of related products and raw materials. To meet the increased demand for more sustainable packaging, the group offers pallet recycling and repair services as part of its circular sourcing services.
The group’s customer base includes multinational companies in sectors such as renewable energy, electronics and semiconductors, food, automotive and packaging. Geographically, in addition to its main market in Malaysia, the group has also established itself in Vietnam.
BEIJING, October 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — A report from chinadaily.com.cn The Beijing Economic and Technological Development Zone, also known as Beijing E-Town, has stepped up efforts to foster strategically important industrial clusters that represent the latest in science and technology. The objective is to establish itself as a pole of high technology industries with international […]]]>BEIJING, October 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — A report from chinadaily.com.cn
The Beijing Economic and Technological Development Zone, also known as Beijing E-Town, has stepped up efforts to foster strategically important industrial clusters that represent the latest in science and technology. The objective is to establish itself as a pole of high technology industries with international influence.
Beijing E-Town steps up efforts to become a smart city
Beijing E-Town saw its gross industrial output value reach nearly 600 billion yuan ($86 billion) in 2021, ranking first in the city.
High-tech industries, represented by next-generation information technology, high-end automobiles and smart manufacturing, contributed more than 90% of gross industrial output value.
During the opening ceremony of the beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, a 8K ultra-high-definition floor-standing display system, the largest of its kind in the world, demonstrated the capabilities of Chinese technology to viewers around the world.
“The core technologies of the world’s largest screen are in our hands,” said a representative from BOE Technology Group, China main manufacturer of liquid crystal display panels based in Beijing E-Town.
In 2021, BOE’s LCD panel shipments for five major application scenarios, namely smartphones, tablets, laptops, monitors and TVs, all ranked first in the world.
“Over the past 10 years, Beijing E-Town has been focusing on critical strategic needs, accelerating research on key technologies, and achieving major breakthroughs in cutting-edge technologies and strategically important industries,” said a Beijing E-Town official.
Beijing E-Town has been a cradle of innovative products and technologies over the past 10 years. By the end of 2021, high-tech enterprises in Beijing Electronic City supplied 96.7% of the region’s total industrial output value.
In 2021, the number of national-level “little giants” based in Beijing Electronic City ranked first among more than 200 national economic development zones in the country. To qualify as a “small giant”, a Chinese company must have recorded an average growth rate of at least 5% year-on-year in its main revenue or net profit over the past two years.
Beijing E-Town is becoming a magnet for high-end resources from around the world, with local industries moving up the global value chain.
Four new production lines of German pharmaceutical company Bayer in Beijing E-Town are under construction. Once commissioned, the fully automatic high-speed production lines, combined with fully automated logistics systems, are expected to increase production capacity by 40% and contribute to the construction of a world-class manufacturing facility.
Over the past decade, an increasing number of multinationals have chosen to locate their newest and most advanced production lines in the electronic city of Beijing. To date, Beijing E-Town was home to some 140 projects supported by more than 90 Fortune Global 500 companies.
Beijing E-Town is the first city in the city to carry out the administrative reform which involves the whole chain of administrative management from approval to supervision and execution. This decision achieved “a seal for examination and approval, and a team for enforcement” and further improved the efficiency of the administration.
SOURCE chinadaily.com.cn
