Natalie Chalk is a UK-based journalist who works on the news desk of the Daily Mail. She also works as Late Breaking News Editor at inews on weekends. Prior to this she has contributed articles to The Mail on Sunday, The Big Issue, The Guardian, Daily Express, Sunday Mirror, Women’s Health, TNT ...

More pain in Spain: Holidaymakers forced to hand over their bank details on check

29 Nov 2024  |  chalkmarks.co.uk  |  English  |  Travel Regulations

Starting Monday, travelers to Spain will be required to provide extensive personal information, including bank details, when checking into accommodations. This new regulation, aimed at combating crime, has been criticized by Spain's hotel association Cehat for potentially violating privacy laws and causing check-in delays. Ramón Estalella of Cehat likened the measure to 'Big Brother' and expressed concerns over its practicality and impact on tourism.

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Travel Regulations Privacy Concerns

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Melissa Daniels is a journalist based in Los Angeles. She has extensive experience covering political campaigns, public policy and the judiciary — as well as feature reporting for arts and culture sections and business publications. She is available for freelance assignments as well as contract ...

Unpacked: How brands are complying with California’s new baby food transparency law

10 Dec 2024  |  www.modernretail.co  |  English  |  Food Safety Regulations

California's Assembly Bill 899 mandates baby food brands to conduct monthly heavy metals testing and disclose results starting in 2025, aiming to enhance transparency and safety. The law, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, requires QR codes on packaging linking to test results. Brands like Once Upon a Farm are proactively ensuring compliance, while experts emphasize the importance of context in presenting test data to avoid consumer misinterpretation. The initiative reflects growing consumer demand for transparency and may inspire similar regulations in other states, with Maryland set to implement a comparable law in 2026.

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Food Safety Regulations Baby Food Transparency Heavy Metal Contamination

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Mariah Doksil is an award winning journalist based in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.

She is passionate about contributing to children, girls and women's empowerment, writing about social inequality and injustice, exploring environmental issues and also documenting stories and facts involving the ...

Plans to increase business trading licenses criticised

28 Nov 2024  |  Borneo Post Online  |  English  |  Business Regulations

The Sabah United Chinese Chamber of Commerce, led by Datuk Michael Lui, criticizes local government plans to increase business trading licenses, particularly in Tawau, starting January 2025. The chamber argues that these plans, alongside other cost-increasing measures like the minimum wage hike and e-invoicing, will burden businesses, especially SMEs, during an economically challenging time. They urge government officials to reconsider these policies to prevent additional costs from being passed to consumers and to foster a more supportive business environment in Sabah.

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Business Regulations Economic Policy

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Center-Left

Political View

I am a bilingual (French/English) journalist/radio producer/audio editor based in Paris. I have extensive experience producing radio news and features from A-Z (research, reporting, writing, voicing, editing, mixing). Currently working as a journalist for the English service of Radio France ...

How French laws on plastic packaging are changing an industry

16 Nov 2024  |  RFI  |  English  |  Environmental Regulations

French and European regulations are driving the packaging industry towards sustainability, with companies like Raja, Lebhar Group, and FDR Emballages adapting to new laws aimed at reducing plastic waste. France plans to phase out single-use packaging by 2040, while the EU seeks to harmonize packaging requirements. Despite challenges, such as cost and material limitations, companies are motivated by both legal mandates and consumer demand for eco-friendly products. Certifications like those from Ecocert Greenlife and RecyClass play a crucial role in ensuring genuine sustainability efforts and preventing greenwashing.

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Environmental Regulations Plastic Packaging Sustainability

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Onur Erdoğan is a journalist based in Mersin, Turkey. He started out as a foreign desk reporter at CNN Turk in 2002. He then worked at TRT Turk first as an editor then as the Baghdad Correspondent and Bureau Chief. Later he worked for Fox TV Turkey as the foreign desk chief. In 2011 he started to ...

How Türkiye is tackling growing issue of illegal betting

13 Nov 2024  |  Türkiye Today  |  English  |  Gambling Regulations

Türkiye is intensifying its efforts to combat illegal betting, which poses significant economic and social risks. The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office is targeting illegal betting organizations operating on social media, while the Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK) has identified extensive use of bank accounts for illegal betting collections. Legal betting in Türkiye is strictly regulated, with severe penalties for violations. Illegal betting is linked to organized crime, financial risks, and lack of consumer protection. Authorities have restricted access to thousands of illegal betting websites, and high-profile individuals have been implicated in promoting these activities. Despite these efforts, illegal betting remains pervasive, with operations often disguised as legitimate international corporations.

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Gambling Regulations Illegal Betting Financial Crime

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Pablo Gutierrez is a Emmy award-winning journalist based in Vienna, Austria. I’ve reported for Telemundo, NBC New York, MSNBC, Univision and Business Insider in the United States and recently I relocated to Europe. I’m bilingual,  English and Spanish, hard working and enterprising. I’ve covered ...

New Peugeot Rifter 2025: end to BlueHDi diesel engines... again!

27 Oct 2024  |  es.motor1.com  |  Spanish  |  Environmental Regulations

Peugeot has decided to discontinue the diesel engines in its Rifter model, reverting to electric versions like the E-Rifter. This decision, not officially confirmed, is speculated to align with upcoming European anti-pollution regulations. The move comes shortly after a recent update that reintroduced combustion engines, which had been a significant customer demand. The article highlights the competitive landscape, mentioning rivals such as Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Renault, and Volkswagen.

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Environmental Regulations Automotive Industry

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I am an internationally certified FPV Drone Pilot in Dubai accredited by (GCAA, FAA, EASA, DCAA) and the Owner and General Manager of Sky Knight Films. 

We specialize in advanced aerial photography and videography while also managing all drone permit requests across Dubai and the UAE. 

Let's ...

FPV filming drone in Dubai

28 Feb 2025  |  Skyknight - FPV filming drone in Dubai  |  English  |  Aviation Regulations

FPV drones are transforming the film industry by offering dynamic and immersive aerial shots. In Dubai, commercial drone operations require permits from the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and the General Civil Aviation Authority. The process includes registering drones, obtaining filming permits, and securing additional approvals for restricted zones. Only licensed pilots can operate drones, and insurance coverage is mandatory. Sky Knight offers services to streamline the permit process for legal aerial filming in Dubai. High-quality FPV drones and cinematic drones like DJI MAVIC 3 CineInspire are commonly used for professional filming.

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Aviation Regulations Drone Filming Film Industry

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Guy Hedgecoe is a journalist based in Madrid, Spain. He covers all news issues, including politics, economics and sport. He is author of 'Freezing Franco: The Battle for Spain's Memory'.

Why is Spain introducing tighter regulations for tourists?

08 Mar 2025  |  The Irish Times  |  English  |  Tourism Regulations

Spain is implementing stricter tourism regulations in response to a strong anti-tourism backlash, with measures such as banning pub crawls in Barcelona and limiting access to natural areas in the Canary Islands. The backlash stems from local grievances over overcrowding and rising housing costs attributed to tourism. Despite tourism's significant contribution to Spain's GDP, the government is balancing economic benefits with local discontent. The opposition Popular Party opposes these restrictions, viewing tourism as an opportunity. Further measures and potential protests are expected as the tourist season approaches.

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Tourism Regulations Anti-Tourism Backlash Spanish Economy

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Political View

Mike Ives is a journalist based in Hanoi, Vietnam, and a regular contributor to The Economist and The New York Times.

A Messy Problem in Orderly Singapore: Keeping Track of Cats

09 Nov 2024  |  www.nytimes.com  |  English  |  Public Housing Regulations

Singapore has lifted a 35-year ban on cats in public housing, allowing residents to keep up to two cats per unit. However, the new regulations are vague, lacking clear enforcement guidelines and raising concerns about potential animal abuse and safety issues. The government is focusing on voluntary sterilization and public feedback during a two-year transition period. Animal advocates and officials are grappling with the complexities of managing the cat population, including the challenges of registering and regulating foster cats.

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Public Housing Regulations Animal Welfare

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Wooyoung Lee is a Seoul-based freelance journalist, covering social, political, and cultural issues with a decade of experience in reporting Korea-related stories for print and online.

KFTC chief stresses flexible approach to tech platforms amid US tariffs

19 Feb 2025  |  www.mlex.com  |  English  |  Anti-monopoly regulations

South Korea's competition authority, led by Han Ki-jeong, emphasizes a flexible regulatory approach towards dominant tech platforms to avoid potential US trade retaliation. The Korea Fair Trade Commission aims to prioritize national interests in its anti-monopoly platform regulation discussions.

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Anti-monopoly regulations US tariffs Tech platforms

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Gustavo Martinez is a bilingual multimedia journalist based in Santa Fe, New Mexico. He can write stories, record audio and video, and shoot stills. He also offers fixer and production services.

SOAT price reduction for 2025: BENEFITED VEHICLES

31 Dec 2024  |  LA FM  |  Spanish  |  Vehicle Regulations

The SOAT insurance price will decrease by an average of 8.7% for most vehicles, including four-wheelers and large motorcycles, due to a reduction in road accidents. However, low-cylinder motorcycles will see a slight increase in their SOAT tariff, offset by a previous government discount. The decision is based on data from Fasecolda and the Superfinanciera, reflecting a decrease in accident rates for certain vehicle categories.

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Vehicle Regulations Insurance

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Luis Mora is a journalist based in Managua, Nicaragua.

DGT Regulation: If Your Car is on This List, You Can't Drive More Than 8 Days a Month

30 Nov 2024  |  EL PERIÓDICO  |  Spanish  |  Vehicle Regulations

The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) in Spain has implemented a new regulation effective from October 1, targeting historical vehicles, which are those over 30 years old. These vehicles, due to their age, often do not meet current safety and emissions standards. The regulation limits their use to a maximum of 8 days per month to reduce environmental impact, although they are still allowed in Low Emission Zones. Spain currently has around 47,000 such vehicles, and the number may increase if older cars are not replaced. To be classified as a historical vehicle, specific criteria must be met, including obtaining a special registration plate.

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Vehicle Regulations Environmental Policy

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Zoran Popovici is a video and photo journalist based in Brussels, Belgium.

Tax Transparency on the eve of Public CbC & CSRD Reporting

03 Dec 2024  |  EURACTIV.com  |  English  |  EU Regulations

With the EU's Public Country by Country Reporting and CSRD Directive set to take effect in 2024, tax transparency is becoming integral to the EU's legal reporting framework. The European Business Tax Forum (EBTF) is facilitating discussions on the implications of these initiatives, highlighting the need for a fact-based public debate on the tax contributions of major multinationals in Europe. The conference aims to address sectoral differences in tax transparency, the adequacy of upcoming reporting obligations, and the role of European multinationals in enhancing EU competitiveness.

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EU Regulations Tax Transparency Corporate Reporting

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Diana Ramos is a journalist based in Quito, Ecuador.
I love photography, researching and writing texts. I specialize in issues related to migration and refugees, as well as economy, politics, cooking and tourism, I also write about Cuba.

MOTORTEC MADRID 2025, essential event for the tire sector

15 Oct 2024  |  Noticias de Madrid  |  Spanish  |  Sustainability Regulations

MOTORTEC MADRID 2025, a key event for the automotive aftermarket in Southern Europe, will take place at IFEMA MADRID from April 23 to 26, 2025. The event is crucial for the tire sector, which faces significant challenges due to new EU regulations on sustainable product design. These regulations, effective since July, aim to enhance product durability, reduce environmental impact, and improve recycling processes. The introduction of the Digital Product Passport (DPP) will aid in tracking tire recyclability, enhancing material recovery and reuse. David Moneo, the event director, emphasized the importance of the event for industry players, supported by ADINE and TNU.

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Sustainability Regulations Automotive Industry Tire Sector

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Roger Russell is a Director / DOP / writer / journalist based in London, United Kingdom.

IRS proposes banning contingency fees

07 Jan 2025  |  Accounting Today  |  English  |  IRS Regulations

The Treasury Department and the IRS have proposed significant amendments to Circular 230, which governs practice before the IRS. These changes aim to update outdated provisions, incorporate technological competency requirements, and clarify jurisdictional and disciplinary procedures. A key proposal is the ban on contingency fees for tax return preparation, which has sparked opposition from some practitioners. The revisions also address appraiser standards and expand grounds for expedited suspension, reflecting recent legal developments and aligning with current practice environments.

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IRS Regulations Tax Law

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Journalist interested in human rights and International news.
Coverage of Ukrainian crisis in 2014 from Kiev and Crimea.
Reporting conditions of Syrian and Palestinian refugee camps in Jordan. Investigation about violation of human rights towards Kurds in Southeastern Turkey. Feature Photo ...

Senate Farm Bill Draft Seeks To Close Loopholes For Intoxicating Hemp

22 Nov 2024  |  Forbes  |  English  |  Hemp Regulations

The Senate has introduced a draft of the Farm Bill, proposing significant changes to federal hemp regulations. Spearheaded by Democratic Senator Debbie Stabenow, the bill aims to close loopholes that allow the production and sale of intoxicating hemp products. The draft distinguishes between hemp and industrial hemp, setting clear THC thresholds and introducing a pilot program for certified hemp seed varieties. While the bill has received mixed reactions from industry stakeholders, it reflects a bipartisan effort to regulate intoxicating hemp products. The final version of the Farm Bill is expected to be addressed in 2025.

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Hemp Regulations Farm Bill Intoxicating Hemp Products

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Susan Shain is a journalist based in Oaxaca, Mexico.

Walla Walla updates zoning to help address child care shortage

14 Nov 2024  |  Northwest Public Broadcasting  |  English  |  Zoning Regulations

Walla Walla City Council has implemented a zoning change to address the child care shortage, allowing larger day care facilities in commercial areas without a $600 application fee or public hearing. This change aims to reduce barriers for providers, inspired by similar actions in Lakewood and Seattle. Eiledon McClellan from Blue Mountain Action Council and city planner Lisa Wasson Seilo emphasize the importance of these changes in supporting the local economy and encouraging more child care facilities. The initiative is seen as a necessary step, though its impact remains to be seen.

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Zoning Regulations Child Care Shortage

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Jerome is The Times Africa Correspondent, based in Nairobi. Before that he lived in Afghanistan and worked for various newspapers and broadcasters.

Rogue drone pilots could face life in prison amid crackdown to protect spy bases

23 Dec 2024  |  The Sun  |  English  |  Drone Regulations

The UK government has enacted emergency powers to protect US military bases from rogue drone pilots, who could face life imprisonment if found guilty of sabotage for a foreign power. This move follows unexplained drone sightings at several US Air Force bases in the UK, raising concerns of potential Russian-backed sabotage. The Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh, has imposed exclusion zones over 11 military sites, allowing the Ministry of Defence to use national security powers for investigation and prosecution. The Civil Aviation Authority has introduced flying restrictions for drones near these bases, emphasizing national security concerns.

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Drone Regulations National Security

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Center

Political View

Brussels editor at MLex. Available as a broadcast guest.

The Brussels Defect

14 Oct 2024  |  www.theleopard.eu  |  English  |  EU Regulations

The article discusses the diminishing influence of the European Union's regulatory power, known as the 'Brussels Effect,' in setting global standards. It highlights the EU's challenges in a rapidly changing world, where its market share is shrinking compared to the US and China. The article argues that the EU's regulatory burden may lead companies like Apple and Meta to withhold products from the European market, potentially disadvantaging European consumers. It suggests that the EU must focus on economic growth and innovation to maintain its regulatory influence.

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EU Regulations Global Standards Tech Innovation

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Center-Right

Political View