Semiconductor Materials Push: Texas extended a $11.6M Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund grant to Soulbrain RASA TX for a Taylor facility making high-purity phosphoric acid for chip manufacturing, targeting 20 high-skilled jobs and $120M+ investment. Solar Manufacturing Buildout: Virginia’s MSolar Manufacturing will invest $23.78M in Shenandoah County to produce vertically integrated solar modules, with 150 jobs expected. Copper Supply Chain Onshoring: Red Metals will invest $70M in North Charleston to refine and manufacture high-conductivity copper rod for wire and cable, creating at least 45 jobs. Aerospace Production Milestone: Airbus’ first A350-1000ULR for Qantas completed its maiden flight in Toulouse, enabling nonstop ultra-long-range service. Pharma Patent Ruling: The U.S. Supreme Court backed Hikma in a generic drug patent dispute, potentially easing generic production. Regulatory/Compliance Watch: Nagaland banned tobacco/nicotine-containing food products for a year; Zydus received a USFDA warning letter tied to records at its Baddi facility. Industry Outlook: Interact Analysis downgraded 2026 global manufacturing growth to 2.6% amid tariffs and geopolitical disruptions. Energy Efficiency in Factories: CertainTeed Canada’s drywall plant in Delta, B.C. cut energy use by capturing waste heat, supported by FortisBC rebates. M&A/Expansion: Mobix Labs signed an LOI to acquire drone maker Vision Aerial, expanding into drone and aerial intelligence markets.