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Skilled worker shortage poses challenge to government’s major PNG expansion drive

As the Middle East conflict continues to strain global energy supplies, the government is pushing for faster expansion of piped natural gas (PNG) connections across the country. But the plan is facing a major hurdle. A shortage of certified gas plumbers has slowed the rollout, with city gas distribution (CGD) companies currently adding only 8,000-10,000…

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Few employers pay Trump-era $100,000 H-1B fee: How it affects job opportunities for skilled professionals

H-1B fee under Trump-era rule sparks court fight over executive power Only a small number of U.S. businesses have paid the $100,000 fee imposed on H-1B visas by a Trump-era presidential proclamation, a development that could reshape ongoing legal challenges over the program that brings skilled foreign workers to the United States. The revelation came…

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Canada sharpens skilled immigration system, unveils new Express Entry categories for 2026

Canada’s immigration minister – Lena Metlege Diab, last night announced new Express Entry immigration categories for 2026. The writing on the wall is clear: the focus is on ‘bringing in the right people to help build a stronger future’. In this backdrop, immigration experts expect that Express Entry draws (the point-based pathway to enable skilled…

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Skilled labour gap: Walmart steps up training to build in-house technicians; US companies widen push to fix trade shortages

As the pool of skilled tradespeople continues to shrink in the US, Walmart is moving to strengthen its in-house workforce to keep its vast operations running — from conveyor belts and refrigeration systems to electrical networks and basic infrastructure at stores and distribution centres, AP reported.The world’s largest retailer and biggest private employer has revamped…

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UK Visa shake up: Higher English standards for skilled workers and who qualifies |

The UK government has announced tougher English language requirements for foreign nationals applying for skilled worker and dependent visas, as part of a broader overhaul of its immigration system outlined in the May 2025 White Paper titled Restoring control over the immigration system. The new measures have been detailed in the UK Parliament’s Commons Library…

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$100k fees for H-1B visa: India assures continued talks with US; focus on ‘skilled talent mobility and exchange’

India continues its engagement with the Trump administration and relevant stakeholders regarding Washington’s proposed rules to increase H-1B visa application fees to $100,000.In its Friday briefing, the MEA emphasised that skilled workforce mobility has significantly benefited both nations’ innovation, economic progress and wealth generation. “We have seen the notice by the US Department of Homeland…

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