Hedera’s The Hashgraph Group invests in AgNext Technologies

Technology

The Hashgraph Group, a Switzerland-based venture capital and technology firm supporting the Hedera blockchain network, has announced a strategic investment in agritech company AgNext Technologies.

According to details in a press release on April 7, the collaboration will see the Hedera (HBAR) blockchain network support AgNext’s growing artificial intelligence-driven agricultural solutions.  

The investment sees The Hashgraph Group join AgNext’s recent fundraising initiative led by Denmark-based Novo Holdings, but more than that, is a key integration milestone for the Hedera blockchain ecosystem.

In particular, AgNext is looking to leverage Hedera’s distributed ledger technology to digitize trust in the supply chain ecosystem, including around insurance and traceability across the food supply chains. 

“With this strategic co-investment alongside Novo Holdings, we look forward to embarking on the tech-enablement journey with AgNext to drive the convergence of AI and Blockchain/DLT, while jointly bringing to market Hedera-powered AgriTech solutions that will enhance AgNext’s competitive edge in the web3 era,” said Stefan Deiss, co-founder & chief executive officer of The Hashgraph Group.

China’s technological advancements: A response to US trade war

Technology

BEIJING- China has denounced the recent tariffs enacted by US President Donald Trump, labeling them as an act of “bullying”.The US tariffs amount to “typical unilateralism and protectionism, and economic bullying”, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday.Lin made the comments during a press conference in response to a question regarding the effects of US tariffs on more than 180 countries and regions around the globe.
He added that the US under the guise of reciprocity, acts in a hegemonic manner, sacrificing the legitimate interests of other countries and placing “America First” above international rules. 
The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman called on countries to jointly oppose all forms of unilateralism and protectionism, and safeguard the international system and the multilateral trading system according to the United Nations and World Trade Organization values respectively.
Trump announced the tariffs on Wednesday which included 34% levies on all Chinese goods entering the United States. Since his return to the White House on January 20, Trump has already implemented two rounds of 10 percent extra duties on all Chinese imports. 
In response to the latest round of US tariffs, Beijing implemented its own 34% tariffs on all American imports on Friday, along with additional actions such as export controls on rare earth minerals and trade limitations targeting specific US companies.
Trump initiated a trade war against China in his first term (2017-2021). Nonetheless, China’s remarkable progress in the technology sector has served as a game changer, mitigating the effects of the trade conflict.
Since the onset of the U.S.-China trade war during Trump’s first administration, Chinese enterprises have gradually built resilience by developing indigenous technologies, says CGTN’s Zhao Chenchen
Zhao Chenchen, a multimedia reporter at CGTN, says the trade conflict initiated by Trump during his first term prompted China to advance its domestic technological capabilities.
“Since the onset of the U.S.-China trade war during Trump’s first administration, Chinese enterprises have gradually built resilience by developing indigenous technologies and diversifying their global supply chains. This transformation is closely tied to China’s broader industrial shift toward high-value sectors such as semiconductors and new energy,” Zhao, who  covers major technological and scientific breakthroughs with a focus on aerospace, artificial intelligence, and engineering innovation, told the Tehran Times.
She noted that the US sanctions, which have restricted China’s access to advanced electronic components, have also motivated the nation’s companies to enhance their self-sufficiency.
“Despite U.S. sanctions that have blocked China’s access to advanced ASML lithography machines, Chinese semiconductor firms are working to build domestic capabilities across the entire value chain. Homegrown equipment is now capable of producing 28nm or older-generation chips, which remain sufficient for many consumer electronics that do not require cutting-edge nodes. Meanwhile, Chinese semiconductor firms are actively pursuing advancements in chiplet technology–a design approach that breaks down complex system-on-chip (SoC) designs into smaller, modular integrated circuits, a method increasingly adopted by many chip manufacturers,” the CGTN reporter said.
Zhao further said China has systematically prioritized basic research in its national strategies, with the 2025 Government Work Report explicitly pledging to “establish a mechanism to increase funding for industries of the future” like quantum computing and AI.
Citing an article by the CDI China Development Zone Innovation Research Institute, Zhao said the compound tariffs will “fundamentally reshape the competitive dynamics between Chinese and U.S. manufacturing, forcing China to undergo a difficult three-to-five-year transition from cost-driven exports to technology-driven globalization.”

Hundreds of tech workers at The Washington Post form Tech Guild

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Press Contact: press@newsguild.org

Today, a majority of over 300 technology workers at The Washington Post announced the formation of The Washington Post Tech Guild and are seeking voluntary recognition from the company. We are taking this step in order to build a more equitable, transparent, and sustainable future for all tech workers at The Post.

Around the world, The Washington Post has earned a reputation for being a news organization that holds the powerful to account. Every day, we — the technologists who power The Post — innovate, develop and maintain tools and systems that benefit this world class journalism. We are committed to upholding this legacy. 

Supported by staff at the Washington Baltimore News Guild, The News Guild and Communication Workers of America and their Campaign to Organize Digital Employees (CODE), the Washington Post Tech Guild will fight tirelessly for equity and inclusion, a seat at the table, fair compensation and benefits, job security, just cause protections, and flexibility and modern work practices. 

“Washington Post leadership has already extended to us the benefits fought and won by our sister union, the Post Guild, like strong parental leave, improved layoff packages, and Juneteenth as a recognized holiday. I’ve seen firsthand the power of a union, and I want to bring that same strength to the tech side. Together, we can win more of the victories the Post Guild has already fought for, like on-call compensation and guaranteed raises.” – Jack, software engineer 

“We’re the workers who build The Washington Post—we ship the code that keeps the newsroom running. We understand what readers want, and we know how to build for the future. Despite unforced errors from our CEO and owner, we’re still here, showing up and delivering. A union gives us a real voice in shaping the future of our work—and ensures this institution continues holding power to account, serving our readers and democracy for another 100 years.” – Luke, software engineer

“I want a union to guarantee transparency and fairness in pay, career advancement and benefits. I want a union to protect our jobs from our executives’ political whims. I want to stand up for my colleagues and myself.” – Lisa, software engineer 

“As the tech workers of The Post, we are proud to support and deliver the world-class journalism produced by our colleagues in the NewsGuild, which plays a vital role in informing public discourse. By organizing, we are asserting our right to have a voice in decisions that affect our working conditions and our right to employee protections. Through collective action, we aim to make The Post a better workplace for all.” – Patrick, Software Engineer  

We are profoundly committed to The Washington Post’s longevity and success, and our work is critical to its mission. We are forming this union to demand the same fairness, transparency and respect that our readers expect from our journalism. The Washington Post Tech Guild will bring these values into our workplace, uniting us in our commitment of truth and integrity.

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About The Washington Post Tech Guild

The Washington Post Tech Guild is a union of over 300 technology workers at The Washington Post organizing for equity, transparency, and a sustainable future for tech workers. From software engineers to product designers, we build and maintain the digital tools that power one of the world’s most trusted news organizations. We believe The Post’s commitment to accountability must extend to its own workplace, and we are organizing to ensure fair pay, job security, just cause protections and a real voice in decisions that affect our work. The Washington Post Tech Guild is part of the Washington-Baltimore News Guild, Local 32035 of The NewsGuild-CWA, the largest union of journalists and media workers in the United States.

This Weekend in History on April 5 and 6: United States Enters World War I

Technology

April 5 and 6 have witnessed a plethora of significant events throughout history, spanning various realms such as politics, science, arts, and humanitarian efforts.The year 1965 marked a transformative moment in the realm of international diplomacy. On April 5, the United States escalated its military involvement in Vietnam, sending additional troops to support the South Vietnamese government against the communist North. This decision, part of the larger context of the Cold War, would lead to an intense and controversial conflict that shaped American foreign policy and domestic politics for years to come. The Vietnam War sparked protests and debates over military intervention, civil rights, and the moral implications of warfare, leaving an indelible mark on American society.Fast forward to 1976, when the world witnessed another significant event: the launch of the first-ever portable computer, the IBM 5100. This groundbreaking piece of technology was a precursor to the personal computers that would dominate the market in the following decades. The IBM 5100 allowed users to perform complex calculations and run programs, paving the way for the digital age. It symbolized the beginning of a technological revolution that would change how people interact, work, and communicate. The influence of portable computing continues to be felt today, as we now rely on smartphones and laptops in our daily lives.April 5, 1994, marked a somber occasion in the world of music and culture with the death of Kurt Cobain, the lead singer of the iconic band Nirvana. Cobain’s influence on the grunge music scene of the early 1990s was profound, and his tragic death at the young age of 27 brought attention to the struggles of mental health, addiction, and the pressures of fame. Cobain’s legacy lives on through his music, which continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans alike. His life and untimely death also sparked discussions about the darker side of the entertainment industry, highlighting the need for greater awareness around mental health issues.In 2000, the world witnessed a historic moment in space exploration. The United States and Russia jointly launched the first crew to the International Space Station (ISS), signifying a new era of international cooperation in space research. This collaboration allowed scientists from different countries to work together on various experiments and studies, fostering a spirit of unity and innovation in the pursuit of knowledge beyond our planet. The ISS has since become a symbol of what humanity can achieve when we come together, transcending borders and differences for the greater good.The year 2010 saw a pivotal moment in the field of environmental science. On April 5, a massive oil spill occurred in the Gulf of Mexico after the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig exploded, leading to one of the largest environmental disasters in history. The spill had devastating effects on marine life, local economies, and public health. The incident sparked widespread outrage and prompted changes in regulations surrounding offshore drilling, highlighting the importance of environmental protection and corporate responsibility. The Deepwater Horizon spill serves as a cautionary tale of the consequences of neglecting environmental standards and the need for sustainable practices.Article continues after sponsor message

More recently, in 2020, April 5 became a day of solidarity as countries around the world united in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. The World Health Organization declared this date as a day of global awareness, urging people to take action to prevent the spread of the virus. Communities rallied around healthcare workers and essential personnel, emphasizing the importance of collective action in overcoming challenges. This day served as a reminder of the resilience of humanity in the face of adversity, showcasing the power of unity and compassion.As we reflect on the events that have taken place on April 5 throughout history, it becomes clear that this day has been a stage for triumph, tragedy, and transformation.April 6 has also witnessed a multitude of significant events throughout history, shaping nations, cultures, and political landscapes.One of the most noteworthy events on April 6 occurred in 1917, when the United States officially entered World War I. The U.S. had maintained a stance of neutrality since the war’s outset in 1914, but a series of provocations, including unrestricted submarine warfare by Germany and the infamous Zimmermann Telegram, which proposed a military alliance between Germany and Mexico, swayed public opinion. President Woodrow Wilson, advocating for a global democracy, called for a declaration of war, marking a turning point in the conflict and ultimately changing the course of history. The U.S. mobilization brought fresh troops and resources to the Allies, contributing significantly to the war’s conclusion in 1918.Fast forward to April 6, 1974, when the world was captivated by the Eurovision Song Contest held in Brighton, England. This year marked the first time Sweden participated and subsequently won with the iconic song “Waterloo,” performed by ABBA. This victory not only propelled ABBA to international stardom but also transformed the landscape of pop music. The Eurovision Song Contest has since become an annual event, celebrated for its flamboyant performances and diverse musical styles, uniting millions across Europe and beyond.In a more somber reflection of history, April 6, 1994, marked the beginning of the Rwandan Genocide. Over the course of 100 days, an estimated 800,000 Tutsi and moderate Hutu were killed in a brutal campaign fueled by ethnic tensions and political power struggles. The international community’s failure to intervene during this crisis remains a painful reminder of the consequences of inaction in the face of human rights violations. The genocide has since prompted global discussions on prevention, intervention, and the responsibility to protect vulnerable populations.April 5 and 6 are not just dates; they are reflections of our shared history—the triumphs and trials that have defined humanity.More like this:

The Dominican Republic breaks new ground: First container of table grapes just shipped to the United States

Technology

The Dominican Republic just made history with the first table grape container shipment to the United States. This is the first of what authorities hope will be many to come in the future. 

During a field day attended by the country’s president, Luis Abinader, the Minister of Agriculture, Limber Cruz, local and international producers, three containers were sealed—one bound for the United States with about 45,000 pounds of grapes, and two for the local market, according to a statement from the Office of the President of the Dominican Republic.
The fruit came from the farm of producer Arismendy Almonte, located in the municipality of Guayubín, in Montecristi’s province, with a fruitful harvest that loaded more than 15 containers, along with another 20 from the south-southwestern region.
During the event, the president highlighted that the event was not just a milestone for the industry, but also a reflection of the national vision in which Dominican agriculture takes a step toward the future.
In conversation with Freshfruitportal.com, Rafael Ortiz Quezada, Deputy Minister of Agriculture for the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Agriculture, explained that the grapes belong to Bloom Fresh and that only one variety was shipped: Timpson.

Photo courtesy of the Dominican Republic’s Presidential Office

The Deputy Minister explained that the fruit was shipped to the United States by ship, in compliance with the phytosanitary protocol requiring the fruit to be 10 days at zero degrees Celsius. “In 10 days, the grapes will be distributed starting from Philadelphia to the supermarkets selected by Bloom Fresh’s commercial manager,” he stated.
“We plan to continue developing the crop,” said Ortiz Quezada. “At the moment, there are two commercial producers growing Timpson and Allison grapes, which were the varieties that showed the best results in trials conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture.”
“More varieties that will be introduced for testing, but until they are tested, they won’t be promoted to producers. This is to clearly see which ones adapt best to Dominican conditions,” he added.
Ortiz Quezada also told Freshfruitportal.com that a shipment of Allison grapes might be ready in two weeks, also destined for the United States.
Table Grapes: A Winning Bet
During his visit to the fields, President Abinader stated that there is no sustainable development without food security. “There is no sovereignty without strong local production, and there is no future without respect and support for our producers. That’s why, with deep gratitude to all who made this moment possible, I say with total conviction: Dominican table grapes are not an experiment. They are a winning bet.”
The president added, “This is part of a new national vision. A vision where the countryside and the city grow together, where innovation is cultivated, and where national pride blossoms with every harvest.”
“The table grapes we’re showing the country today—and soon, the world—are more than just a fruit. They’re a symbol of transformation.”
“Just three years ago, this idea seemed distant. Today, it’s a reality. Thanks to strategic partnerships like the one developed with Bloom Fresh, and to the openness of our producers to new technologies and practices, we’ve managed to grow a high-quality, genetically superior grape on Dominican soil—capable of competing with the highest international standards,” Abinader emphasized.
The Dominican Republic has a tropical climate that allows for year-round cultivation and the ability to time grape harvests to enter North American markets at the most profitable moments.
Its geographic location also allows shipments from the new Port of Manzanillo to key U.S. ports like Philadelphia to take only 3 to 5 days—while competitors take between 18 and 25 days. The country also has shorter transit times to Canada.

Photo courtesy of Dominican Republic’s Presidential Office

Ortiz added that grapes are just the first fruit the country’s ministry is setting its eyes on. “We are convinced that our proximity to North America—namely the U.S. and Canada—allows us to develop not only grapes but other crops with top-tier quality, capable of shifting the economic weight of the agricultural sector,” he said. “We’re starting now with grapes, but other products are on the way, such as blueberries, pomegranates, figs, raspberries, and blackberries, which can be delivered from here almost every week of the year to the markets that need them.”
Josep Jove, CEO of Bloom Fresh Global, highlighted that this is an industry built from the ground up, and that the next step for the company is to establish its first innovation center on the island, aimed at introducing and developing new varieties.
Sebastián Díaz, Technical Manager at Bloom Fresh Global, praised the support of the government through the Ministry of Agriculture and the San Juan Plan in this project.
He said these crops are helping many local families rise out of poverty, “At the end of the day, we’re changing people’s lives, and that’s what makes us the happiest.”