EU Policy & Compliance: Pay transparency rules start rolling out across the EU this June, with Slovakia among the early adopters, pushing HR to publish starting pay ranges, answer pay questions, and prepare gender pay reporting timelines. Automotive Supply Chain: A strike at Plasman, a Volvo supplier in Ghent, has halted bumper production and raises fresh questions about the future of Volvo Cars Ghent and its wider industrial base. Slovakia Energy & Industry: Slovakia’s biogas sector is “stable but low-growth,” with biomethane still ramping up (five grid-injecting plants) while support schemes for the transition remain the key bottleneck. Trade & Diplomacy: Slovakia signed new agreements with India in Bratislava to ease visa-free diplomatic travel and allow family members to work, with talks ahead of Modi’s June 15 visit expected to cover trade, investment, innovation and defence industry cooperation. Logistics & Security: Hungary seized a record 522 kg cocaine haul hidden in banana shipments, with the container routed via Germany and linked to a cross-border operation involving Slovak partners. Shipping Liability: The IMO’s 2010 HNS hazardous cargo compensation regime is set to enter into force in 2027, closing a long-standing gap for chemical and alternative fuel shipments by sea. Transport Connectivity: Rail Europe expanded its network by adding Czech operator Leo Express, improving cross-border rail booking access for travellers across the region including Slovakia.