Smart Ports & Automation: China is showcasing “smart port” operations at Beibu Gulf Port’s Smart Port Innovation Centre, where smart cranes, autonomous container haulers, and a control centre run most yard activity with remote monitoring. Energy Storage Push: NTPC Renewable Energy floated an EPC tender for 240 MW/960 MWh grid-connected BESS at its Devikot Solar Plant in Rajasthan, with 15-year O&M and 25-year design life requirements. C&I Storage Boom in India: A new IESA study projects India’s commercial and industrial battery storage could jump from under 1 GWh in 2025 to 23–31 GWh by 2032, driven by tariffs, renewables, and reliability needs. Green Trucking in Cement: UltraTech Cement will deploy 45 electric heavy-duty trucks to move clinker between Rajasthan and Delhi-NCR, targeting major diesel displacement and CO2 cuts. Strait of Hormuz Shipping Disruption: Intertanko says the main Hormuz lane remains blocked by about 80 naval mines, pushing tankers to northern and southern corridors while mine clearance is planned. UAE Crude Loading Options: ADNOC issued a tender for Upper Zakum, Umm Lulu and Das crude with options to load inside Hormuz (FOB) or via storage and ship-to-ship routes, testing trade appetite after a US-Iran interim deal. Shipyard Strike Risk: Workers at BAE-linked shipyards face renewed strikes starting June 24, with potential knock-on delays for Royal Navy frigate construction. Apple Price Hikes: Tim Cook warned “unavoidable” price increases as AI-driven memory and storage costs stay elevated, adding pressure across consumer electronics supply chains. Telangana Grain Silos: Telangana plans technology-driven grain silos at 20 locations to modernise paddy storage and cut post-harvest losses.