Latest News

Fiji's emerging innovation ecosystem is entering a new phase, with the government calling for deeper collaboration between entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders and development partners to turn ideas into businesses, jobs and new economic opportunities. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Industries, Commerce, Business Development and Public Enterprises Manoa Kamikamica made the call while opening the inaugural Fiji Innovation Hub Showcase in Suva. Kamikamica said the focus must now move beyond establishing a physical innovation space to building the community and business networks needed to sustain Fiji's innovation ecosystem. “The greatest return on this investment will come from the businesses you build, the jobs you create, the problems you solve and the opportunities you generate for communities across Fiji,” Kamikamica said. The Fiji Innovation Hub is a strategic partnership involving the government, Reserve Bank of Fiji and development partners, with the long-term ambition of becoming a centre for Fiji's innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem. The Hub is intended to give entrepreneurs access to mentorship, connect innovators and students with investors and industry, help businesses identify growth opportunities and new markets, and strengthen the contribution of innovation to productivity, employment, economic growth and resilience. Building an entrepreneurship ecosystem Kamikamica said achieving those objectives would require sustained commitment from the private sector and could not be delivered by government alone. He called on business leaders, investors and experienced professionals to take a more active role in mentoring emerging entrepreneurs, sharing expertise, opening professional networks and helping promising businesses establish connections to finance and markets. For founders and emerging entrepreneurs, such networks can be critical as they seek to expand into new markets, secure financing and manage the challenges associated with business growth. The Innovation Hub Showcase has brought together participants through partner panels, founder conversations, Talanoa sessions and networking opportunities designed to encourage the exchange of ideas and identify potential areas for collaboration. International and private-sector support Kamikamica acknowledged the support of the United Nations Development Programme, the United Nations Capital Development Fund's Pacific Digital Economy Programme, the European Union, the governments of Australia and New Zealand, the Reserve Bank of Fiji, Creative HQ, Mastercard, HFC Bank and Fiji Airways. The range of partners reflects the government's effort to build an innovation ecosystem that connects public institutions with financial, business, technology and development-sector organisations. With demand for programmes, mentorship, networking and support services continuing to grow, Kamikamica said the momentum around the Hub showed that Fiji's innovators were ready for the next stage. The challenge, he said, is now to convert that momentum into measurable outcomes, including stronger businesses, more jobs, practical solutions and wider economic opportunities. The government ultimately wants the Fiji Innovation Hub to help position the country as a leading Pacific centre for innovation and entrepreneurship while creating opportunities for future generations in Fiji and across the wider Pacific.

The Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority has clarified that a proposed corporate transaction involving seabed minerals explorer AOMC and Odyssey Marine Exploration does not alter the status of any exploration licence or give the companies ownership or control of seabed mineral resources. The SBMA said the proposed transaction, disclosed through US Securities and Exchange Commission filings, is being assessed under Cook Islands law, with the interests of Cook Islanders central to the process. The authority stressed that an exploration licence does not confer ownership of Cook Islands seabed minerals or automatically grant rights to commercially harvest minerals. “No company owns or controls any part of the Cook Islands Exclusive Economic Zone or Marae Moana through an exploration licence,” the SBMA said. Cook Islands seabed mineral resources remain under the country’s jurisdiction, it said. The authority also addressed reports that the transaction could be completed in October, saying the timetable set by the companies does not determine the Cook Islands’ regulatory process. “Company timelines do not set Cook Islands regulatory timelines,” the SBMA said, adding that the proposed transaction does not override Cook Islands law or determine any regulatory matter in advance. The SBMA said its assessment covers issues including ownership and control, financial capability, compliance, royalties, taxation, environmental obligations and other regulatory requirements. It has sought further information and assurances as part of the assessment, the authority said. The Cook Islands remains in an exploration and research phase, with no commercial minerals harvesting approved or authorized under existing exploration licences. Any proposal to move from exploration to commercial harvesting would remain subject to Cook Islands legal and regulatory requirements, including environmental assessment, public consultation where required and relevant decision-making processes. The SBMA said public scrutiny of seabed minerals activities was important, but urged discussion to be based on verified information and an understanding of the regulatory framework. “Commercial arrangements between companies do not decide the future of the Cook Islands seabed minerals sector,” it said. “That decision rests with the Cook Islands, through Cook Islands law, public process, and national decision-making.”

Fiji is exploring long-term cooperation with Malaysia to strengthen fuel security and shield the country from future global supply disruptions, including through strategic reserves and offshore fuel storage. Discussions between Fiji and Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur on Aug. 10 focused on strategic fuel reserves, emergency supply assurances, resilient supply chains and long-term energy infrastructure. The talks also considered the possibility of pre-positioned offshore fuel storage and strengthened maritime supply arrangements. Fiji’s Foreign Affairs and External Trade Minister Sakiasi Ditoka held discussions with Malaysia’s Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Johari Abdul Ghani, highlighting Fiji’s vulnerability as a small island developing state that relies heavily on imported fuel. Johari outlined Malaysia’s work on strategic fuel security and stockpiling arrangements with international partners, giving Fiji an opportunity to assess how Malaysia’s experience and energy infrastructure could support its longer-term fuel security. “Energy security is a critical component of national security for small island developing states,” Ditoka said. “Malaysia’s advanced refining capabilities and world-class energy infrastructure make it a natural strategic partner. Exploring a formal and structured arrangement on fuel security and offshore stockpiling reflects our Coalition Government’s proactive commitment to protecting Fijian families and local businesses from international price shocks,” he said. The discussions also covered opportunities to expand trade, investment, technology transfer and industrial cooperation, including increased Malaysian investment in Fiji and improved market access for Fijian products. The reopening of Fiji’s High Commission in Kuala Lumpur is expected to provide a platform for further bilateral cooperation, with a focus on economic partnership, energy security and practical outcomes for both countries. For Fiji, the discussions come as the government seeks to strengthen the resilience of its fuel supply system against disruptions in international markets and maritime supply chains.

The Lakaro Solar Hybrid Power Plant has been commissioned at Vunisea Government Station in Kadavu, reducing diesel consumption and delivering new renewable energy capacity to one of Fiji's maritime communities. Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport Ro Filipe Tuisawau officially commissioned the facility, with Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change Lynda Tabuya and New Zealand High Commissioner to Fiji Greg Andrews also attending. The project, supported through a partnership between Fiji, New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates, is already reducing Vunisea's diesel consumption from about 60 drums to 20 drums a month. The reduction is expected to save approximately $336,000 a year while lowering the community's reliance on imported diesel fuel. The hybrid plant can provide up to 30% renewable energy, strengthening the reliability and security of electricity supply in Kadavu while reducing the environmental impact of diesel-based generation. For remote and maritime communities, the project demonstrates how renewable energy can contribute not only to climate goals but also to energy security, resilience and lower costs for delivering essential services. The government said it remains committed to working towards 100% renewable energy generation for Vunisea and expanding sustainable energy solutions across Fiji's maritime communities. The project reflects cooperation between Fiji, New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates in developing renewable energy infrastructure and reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.

The 48th Bourail Fair drew about 22,000 participants over the weekend, bringing together agriculture, livestock and handicraft businesses while highlighting the contribution of rural industries to New Caledonia's economy. The annual event officially opened on Aug. 14, with the first day dedicated to industry professionals and providing an opportunity for government officials to engage with agricultural and craft-sector representatives. Government President Milakulo Tukumuli, accompanied by Christopher Gygès, Méryl Marlier and Philippe Blaise, met with industry stakeholders and producers involved in promoting New Caledonian agricultural products. The government delegation held discussions with agricultural-sector representatives during a breakfast organised by the Office for Marketing and Cold Storage (OCEF). The discussions provided an opportunity to examine issues affecting the agricultural sector and the role of industry organisations in supporting producers and strengthening local supply chains. The delegation also met with the Chamber of Trades and Crafts (CMA), in the presence of its president, Elizabeth Rivière. Discussions focused on the chamber's priorities and outlook, including support for craftspeople and vocational training. The meetings come as New Caledonia's agricultural and craft sectors seek to maintain economic activity and strengthen opportunities for local producers and businesses. Cultural exchange The fair also provided a platform for cultural cooperation between New Caledonia and New Zealand. Tukumuli, alongside New Zealand Consul General Mary Thurston, Bourail Mayor Patrick Robelin and the Republic's delegated commissioner for the Southern Province, Catherine Merkcx, attended the inauguration of the monumental sculpture “La pirogue des peuples” (The Peoples' Canoe). The sculpture was created during a cultural residency in Bourail involving Kanak and Māori sculptors, highlighting cultural links between the Pacific communities. Focus on local priorities The government delegation later met with Bourail Mayor Patrick Robelin at the town hall for a formal meeting focused on the municipality's priorities. The discussions included challenges facing the municipality as a result of declining government funding allocations. The meeting provided an opportunity for the local and territorial authorities to discuss issues affecting Bourail and the resources available to address them. The 48th Bourail Fair serves as a showcase for New Caledonia's agricultural industries, rural expertise and handicrafts, bringing producers, businesses, government representatives and communities together. The event's strong attendance underscored the continued importance of agriculture, livestock and local craftsmanship to the territory's economic and social life.

Fiji’s Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation has opened applications for a pilot fund aimed at helping locally owned micro and small tourism businesses expand and diversify their products and services. Applications for the Pilot Tourism Micro and Small Enterprise Fund for the 2026-27 financial year opened Wednesday and will remain open until Sept. 30, 2026. The fund will provide grants to eligible Fijian-owned tourism businesses, with support covering both capital projects and operational activities. The ministry said the initiative is intended to strengthen the sustainability of tourism micro and small enterprises and support the development of new tourism products and experiences that can benefit visitors and local communities. Eligible applicants must be Fijian citizens aged at least 18 and own a registered business that has operated for a minimum of two years. Businesses must be at least 51% Fijian-owned, generate the majority of their revenue from tourism and be able to contribute at least one-third of the total project cost. Funding can be used for product and experience improvements, website upgrades and other efforts to improve business visibility, technology adoption, visitor amenities and signage, small-scale infrastructure such as trails, and equity funding through financial institutions. The fund also covers activities involving culture and heritage, environmentally sustainable tourism such as birdwatching and trekking, accessibility improvements, heritage-site upgrades, agritourism and wellness tourism. Businesses with annual turnover of more than F$300,000 are excluded from the program, along with proposals for debt refinancing, applications from civil servants and large-scale infrastructure projects. The ministry said applicants should review the Pilot MSE Tourism Fund Policy before submitting their applications. Applications are being submitted online through the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation website. The ministry also has an appeal and grievance process for applicants who want to challenge aspects of the program or decisions made during assessment. The fund is part of the government’s efforts to strengthen participation by smaller businesses in Fiji’s tourism industry, which relies heavily on micro, small and medium enterprises. Applications close on Sept. 30, 2026.

Tuvalu has completed its first sport fishing tourism pilot, an initiative aimed at testing the potential for a premium, environmentally sustainable tourism product while creating new economic opportunities for local communities. The pilot was delivered through a partnership between the Australia-Pacific Partnerships for Aviation Program (P4A) and the National Fisheries Corporation of Tuvalu (NAFICOT), with support from experienced Australian sport fishing guides Justin Duggan and Gavin Platz. The guides worked alongside NAFICOT to explore how Tuvalu's marine environment could support a high-value sport fishing tourism offering while protecting the country's fisheries, environment, culture and communities. The initiative is designed to attract visitors who travel specifically for sport fishing, potentially generating demand for flights to Funafuti and supporting businesses involved in tourism, hospitality, transport and other services. For Tuvalu, the pilot provides an opportunity to diversify its tourism offering and create new sources of income while making use of the country's marine resources in a controlled and sustainable way. The model is intended to grow carefully, with environmental sustainability at its core. This includes ensuring that increased tourism activity does not undermine Tuvalu's marine environment or fisheries and that economic benefits extend to local communities. The initiative could also strengthen aviation connectivity by creating additional demand for international and regional flights to Funafuti, linking tourism development with broader economic activity. Australia said the pilot demonstrates the potential of the partnership between the two countries under the Falepili Union, which provides a framework for closer cooperation between Australia and Tuvalu. By combining sustainable tourism development with stronger aviation connectivity, the initiative is intended to help Tuvalu expand its economy while creating opportunities for future generations.

  Since being signed in October 2025, the ‘U.S.-Australia Framework for Securing Supply in the Mining and Processing of Critical Minerals and Rare Earths’ (“Framework”) has gained momentum against the backdrop of intensifying global competition for strategic resources. The initiative reflects a broader structural shift: critical minerals are no longer simply commodities, but are increasingly becoming instruments of economic security, industrial policy and geopolitical leverage. At its core, the Framework seeks to integrate two resource-rich, politically aligned jurisdictions into a more resilient supply chain for minerals essential to defence systems, semiconductors, electric vehicles and clean energy infrastructure. It aims to do so by incentivising cross-border investment, accelerating permitting and facilitating preferential offtake arrangements. From a policy standpoint, the Framework aligns with parallel efforts such as the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act and Australia’s Critical Minerals Strategy, each designed to reduce dependence on concentrated supply sources and to “friend-shore” production capacity. In practical terms, the Framework may unlock access to U.S. government-backed financing, including through the Export-Import Bank of the U.S. and the U.S. Department of Defense’s industrial base programmes, materially improving project bankability. For developers and investors, this signals opportunity. However, history — and recent arbitration trends in the mining sector — suggest a more complex reality: geopolitical stability at the macro level often masks heightened instability at the project level. Indeed, the acceleration of capital deployment, compressed development timelines and increasing politicisation of resource allocation are all well-established catalysts for disputes. Where disputes are likely to emerge 1. Native title and land access pressures A significant proportion of Australia’s critical mineral deposits are located on or near land subject to Indigenous rights and cultural heritage protections. The consultation and consent requirements under the Native Title Act 1993 are rigorous, and for good reason. However, where projects are fast-tracked under strategic imperatives, tensions inevitably arise. Recent experience across the mining sector shows that insufficient consultation or procedural shortcuts can trigger injunctions, heritage disputes and long-tail reputational harm. From a disputes perspective, these conflicts are increasingly hybrid, combining domestic administrative litigation with contractual and investor-State dimensions. 2. Joint venture and offtake fragility in volatile markets Critical minerals projects are capital-intensive and often structured through complex joint ventures and long-term offtake agreements. These arrangements are particularly vulnerable in environments of price volatility and shifting policy incentives. As seen in lithium and rare earth markets over the past five years, divergence between contracted prices and spot markets can become extreme. This creates fertile ground for disputes over: • price review and hardship clauses**;** • force majeure and “change in law” provisions**; and** • operator control and capital allocation decisions. Where projects are strategically significant, these disputes may escalate quickly, with broader political or regulatory implications. 3. Regulatory complexity and judicialisation of approvals Australia’s regulatory landscape, spanning federal regimes such as the Foreign Acquisitions and Takeovers Act and a patchwork of state-based mining and environmental laws, remains inherently complex. The addition of a “strategic project” designation does not eliminate this complexity; it may, in fact, intensify scrutiny. Third parties, including environmental NGOs and local communities, are increasingly sophisticated and willing to challenge approvals through judicial review mechanisms. This trend mirrors developments in other jurisdictions, where expedited approvals tied to energy transition goals have been successfully contested, delaying projects and increasing costs. 4. Export controls and sovereign reallocation risk The Framework itself is non-binding and operates within a fluid geopolitical environment. Export controls, domestic reservation policies or shifts in alliance priorities can materially alter the commercial assumptions underpinning a project. Investors structuring projects around anticipated U.S. demand or preferential access may face realignment risk if political priorities shift. This raises complex questions around: • stabilisation clauses**;** • sovereign interference**; and** • potential recourse under investment treaties. Recent ISDS jurisprudence demonstrates that resource nationalism, particularly in strategic sectors, continues to generate high-value claims, often centred on indirect expropriation and fair and equitable treatment standards. A structural observation: ESG as shield and sword An emerging dynamic worth highlighting is the dual role of ESG considerations. On the one hand, ESG compliance is increasingly positioned as a prerequisite for access to financing and market entry under frameworks like this one. On the other, ESG obligations are being invoked by States as a regulatory justification in disputes. This creates a paradox: ESG can operate both as a shield for States and as a sword for claimants, particularly where regulatory measures are inconsistent, disproportionate or applied retrospectively. Conclusion: Strategic alignment, legal complexity The U.S.-Australia Framework represents a sophisticated attempt to align industrial policy with geopolitical realities. It will likely accelerate investment and unlock significant value across the critical minerals supply chain. But for project developers, investors and financiers, the key takeaway is clear: the risk profile is evolving, not diminishing. Careful attention must be paid to: • contractual risk allocation (particularly around price, force majeure and regulatory change); • dispute resolution mechanisms (including the selection of the arbitral seat, governing law and enforcement strategy); and • the interaction between domestic regulatory frameworks and international investment protections. For project developers, investors, offtake counterparties and financiers active in Australia’s and/or the US’s critical minerals sectors, careful attention should be given to contractual terms in light of the rapidly changing regulatory environment which, in some respects concerning the Framework, remains undefined. In short, the next phase of the critical minerals boom will not only be defined by “big deals”, but also by increasingly complex, high-stakes disputes.   Ryan Cable, Partner (Brisbane), and Diora Ziyaeva, Partner and U.S. Region Co-Lead in Mining and Natural Resources (New York), are members of Dentons’ global International Arbitration and Investment Treaty Arbitration groups. They advise clients across the mining, energy and infrastructure sectors on project development, joint ventures, dispute resolution and regulatory compliance.

For ten years, Project Yumi has been making a difference in communities across Papua New Guinea, building partnerships, strengthening local capacity and delivering practical initiatives that continue to create lasting impact. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into an Australian-registered charity working alongside communities in 20 of Papua New Guinea’s 22 provinces. Throughout its journey, Project Yumi has remained committed to a simple but powerful belief: sustainable development is achieved when communities are empowered to shape their own future. That philosophy has resonated with organisations across the mining, resources and business sectors, where long-term success is increasingly measured not only by economic contribution, but also by the legacy left within the communities that support industry. Through Project Meri, women have been supported through maternal health initiatives that encourage attendance at health facilities for antenatal and postnatal care. Healthcare providers have also received equipment and resources to strengthen frontline services. Meanwhile, Project Skul has helped schools access educational resources that create more engaging learning environments for students, while Project Wok has equipped young Papua New Guineans with employability skills and pathways into meaningful employment. Beyond these flagship programmes, Project Yumi has worked with more than 150 schools, health facilities and community organisations, delivering resources that continue to improve opportunities for thousands of Papua New Guineans. Yet for Project Yumi, success cannot be measured by numbers alone. While the figures tell part of the story, the organisation believes its greatest achievements are reflected in stronger communities, increased local ownership and partnerships that continue long after the initial investment. For Project Yumi, sustainability has never been about delivering a project and walking away; it has always been about laying the foundations for communities to thrive independently. This collaborative approach has enabled Project Yumi to work alongside a growing network of corporate partners, volunteers, donors and community organisations, many of whom contribute far more than financial support. Their expertise, logistics, professional skills and local knowledge have all played an important role in extending the reach and effectiveness of programmes across Papua New Guinea. For the mining and resources sector, these partnerships demonstrate the value of investing in initiatives that complement broader sustainability and social investment goals. By working with trusted organisations that have established relationships within communities, businesses can contribute to meaningful, measurable outcomes while supporting the long-term wellbeing of the regions in which they operate. As Project Yumi celebrates its tenth anniversary, the milestone is less about reflecting on the past than recognising what can be achieved through collaboration. The challenges facing Papua New Guinea remain significant, but so too are the opportunities when communities, industry and development organisations work together towards a shared purpose. Ten years of impact is an achievement worth celebrating. More importantly, it marks the beginning of the next chapter — one focused on building healthier communities, stronger education systems and sustainable opportunities for future generations across Papua New Guinea.

Customs leaders from 24 Pacific administrations will gather in Fiji this week for the 28th Annual Conference of the Oceania Customs Organisation, focusing on strengthening border security, facilitating trade and supporting economic growth across the region. The conference, to be held from June 2 to 4 under Fiji's chairmanship of the Oceania Customs Organisation, will bring together heads of customs agencies, senior government officials, development partners and international organizations under the theme, "Scaling Up the Commitment of Customs to Protect and Grow our Pasifika Communities." The meeting comes as Pacific nations face increasing pressure from transnational organized crime, shifting trade patterns and growing demands on border management agencies. According to organizers, discussions will focus on enhancing regional cooperation and building customs capabilities to address emerging security and trade challenges. Recent large-scale narcotics seizures across the Pacific have highlighted attempts by organized criminal networks to exploit maritime and aviation routes across the region. Customs administrations also continue to confront risks linked to human trafficking, illicit financial flows, customs fraud, environmental crimes and the smuggling of prohibited goods. OCO Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer of the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service, Udit Singh, said customs agencies play a critical role in protecting communities while supporting economic development. "Customs today is far more than a border agency. We are guardians of our communities, facilitators of trade, protectors of government revenue, and partners in economic growth," Singh said. "The work of Customs directly impacts the prosperity, safety, and resilience of our Pacific nations." Singh said Pacific countries, despite being geographically dispersed, face common challenges that require collective action and stronger regional partnerships. "The scale and complexity of modern border threats mean that no country can address these issues alone. Regional cooperation is essential. When one Pacific border is strengthened, the entire region becomes safer and more secure," he said. He noted that the Pacific occupies an increasingly strategic position within global trade and transport networks linking Asia, Australasia and the Americas, making effective customs administration critical to regional and international security. The conference will feature contributions from international partners including the World Customs Organization, the United Nations and the World Bank. Key agenda items include border security, maritime enforcement, trade facilitation, passenger processing, digital transformation, leadership development and intelligence-sharing across Pacific jurisdictions. During Fiji's tenure as OCO chair, the organization has prioritized regional capacity building, leadership development, customs modernization and stronger partnerships with international agencies. Organizers said these initiatives have helped strengthen customs administrations across the Pacific and improve their ability to respond to emerging threats and opportunities. This year's gathering marks the first time in more than a decade that Fiji has hosted the OCO Annual Conference, reflecting the country's continued role in regional customs cooperation. Members of the Oceania Customs Organisation include Papua New Guinea, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Samoa, Tonga, Kiribati, Tuvalu, Nauru, Palau, Timor-Leste and other Pacific jurisdictions.