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Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele has commended the Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI) for its continued efforts in empowering young entrepreneurs and creating opportunities for youth across the country. The Prime Minister made the remarks when the YECSI Board and transitioning members paid a courtesy visit to him on 13 March 2026 to present the organisation’s 2025 Annual Report and provide a comprehensive briefing on the progress achieved over the past two years. YECSI Chairman Limahl Totogi expressed profound gratitude to the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT), observing that while the Board’s visit in 2024 was to seek urgent support, the current meeting served to report on the tangible results of that partnership. Totogi highlighted that, with the strategic support received from the Government, 2025 has become a benchmark year for the YECSI programme. He introduced the YECSI team and transitioning members in attendance, who represented entrepreneurs operating in sectors such as agriculture, transportation, digital technology and waste management. Totogi noted that YECSI now maintains representation across all provinces, ensuring that the Government’s reach extends to young entrepreneurs in even the most remote areas, such as Temotu. The Chairman specifically acknowledged the critical intervention of the GNUT Government, which sustained YECSI when external funding ceased. Since that intervention, membership has grown to over 180 members across 23 sectors. A central pillar of this success has been the SBD 3 million in funding support from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, which was utilised to provide SBD 1.9 million in direct business grants for 24 new ventures and SBD 2.1 million to assist members in formalising their businesses. Further support included a SBD 500,000 revolving fund from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock for agriculture value chains, alongside technical assistance from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration, and the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs (MWYCA). In response, Prime Minister Manele thanked the YECSI Board for the presentation of their 2025 Annual Report and acknowledged the organisation’s vital role in helping a growing youth population create its own economic opportunities. The Prime Minister also noted the importance of cross-ministerial support provided to YECSI, acknowledging that where MWYCA may face limitations in direct entrepreneurial support, other productive line ministries have successfully stepped in. He emphasised that this collaborative approach ensures that young entrepreneurs receive specialised support from ministries relevant to their respective sectors. The Prime Minister highlighted fisheries and other productive industries as sectors for further exploration and assured the Board that he would convey their appreciation to the respective ministers. He also welcomed support from bilateral partners, including the People’s Republic of China, in areas such as e-commerce and digital entrepreneurship. Prime Minister Manele further encouraged YECSI members to remain resilient amid global economic uncertainties and fuel price volatility, noting that the nation must remain mindful of the challenges ahead. He wished the YECSI Board and its members continued success in their efforts to support young entrepreneurs across the country.

LION One Metals Ltd. has begun upgrading drilling operations at its Tuvatu gold mine in Fiji, as part of a broader push to stabilise production and strengthen long-term performance. The company said it has commenced a significant overhaul of its drill fleet, replacing ageing underground rigs that had exceeded their operational lifespan and constrained drilling output since mid-2025. The existing fleet will be replaced with three new high-performance underground drill rigs and an additional surface rig. Initial improvements have already been recorded, with underground drilling metres per shift doubling following enhanced maintenance support and technical oversight. A track-mounted surface drill rig began operations on March 14 to support in-mine and near-mine drilling during the wet season, with plans to shift to wider exploration during the dry season. Lion One said it is also in advanced negotiations to acquire four new underground drill rigs, targeting drilling rates of at least 25 metres per shift, compared with less than 10 metres earlier this year and 12 to 18 metres currently. The company said improved drilling capacity would provide the geological data needed to support mine design, grade control and production scheduling, as well as enable multiple mining areas to be developed simultaneously. The drilling upgrade forms part of what the company described as “Phase 2” of Tuvatu’s development, following the transition from initial production to building a more resilient and predictable mining operation. In a separate update, Lion One reported February gold production of 813 ounces, bringing year-to-date output to 9,180 ounces. The processing plant milled 10,267 tonnes of ore at an average grade of 3.49 grammes per tonne, with a recovery rate of 77.3 percent. The company said recovery rates are expected to improve with the near-completion of a flotation plant. Underground development totalled 120 metres during the month, below the 188-metre target, with performance affected by equipment availability and compressed air constraints. The company said these issues are being addressed through the commissioning of new equipment, improved maintenance planning and ventilation upgrades. Lion One said safety performance remained strong, with no lost-time injuries recorded in February and enhancements made to on-site medical facilities, including the addition of a full-time nurse. Exploration drilling totalled 2,369 metres across four rigs during the month, with results including an intercept of 5.15 metres at 9.18 grammes per tonne gold. The company said its current focus is on improving operational reliability, increasing development rates and enhancing plant performance, while maintaining safety and advancing infrastructure and environmental management initiatives. Lion One operates the Tuvatu alkaline gold project within the Navilawa caldera and is seeking to expand both production and resource confidence as it progresses its next phase of development.

The operator of the PNG LNG Project, ExxonMobil PNG Limited, recently welcomed 75 outstanding ninth-grade girls from five Port Moresby schools for a day of hands-on science experiments, mentorship, and exciting activities designed to spark their curiosity and build their confidence in engineering. Now in its second year in Papua New Guinea, ExxonMobil’s Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day — held at its LNG Plant at Caution Bay — was a resounding success. This year’s theme, “Design Your Future,” encouraged students to imagine the possibilities of a STEM career (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). Supported by 42 passionate employee volunteers from ExxonMobil’s Women in Energy Network, the students explored key engineering concepts and learned directly from Papua New Guinean engineering professionals. ExxonMobil PNG Chairman and Managing Director Dinesh Sivasamboo visited the students during their practical sessions and was impressed by both their enthusiasm and teamwork. “It’s great to see that even though you’ve come from different schools, you have quickly made new friends and learned to work together effectively as a team to solve real-world problems. These are important skills and experiences that will help you excel in your lives and your careers,” Sivasamboo said. “Papua New Guinea’s energy future looks quite bright, so there will be opportunities for students like you throughout our industry. I hope you will continue to apply yourselves to your studies so that you might join us as engineers one day,” he concluded. Students expressed their gratitude and excitement about the experience, saying it opened their eyes to new possibilities in engineering. “I didn’t think much about taking on engineering, but after today, I might have a change of mind,” said Zillar Naku Pa’aka from Gordon Secondary School. “Once we started the practical activities, I really enjoyed it.” “I really enjoyed the electrical engineering activity with the circuit boards,” added Sylvia Mero from Jubilee Catholic Secondary School. “When the lights lit up, it felt like it lit something in me. I think after today, I’d like to become an engineer.” The students represented Gordon Secondary School, Charles Lwanga Secondary School, Jubilee Secondary School, Bavaroko Junior High School, and Ororo Junior High School. The day concluded with lunch at the Plant site mess and a small gift pack for each participant to take home. ExxonMobil PNG is proud to help inspire the next generation of innovators by empowering more girls to dream big and engineer boldly.

The Lasi Tribal Group in Central Guadalcanal has taken a step forward in advancing a proposed protected area in the Upper Tina Catchment, following a two-day consultation facilitated by the Tina River Hydropower Development Project (TRHDP) Project Office and government partners. The consultation, held on Feb. 25–26 at Turaranga Community in Vulolo Ward, concluded with participants expressing in-principle support to progress the Barahau–Longa area through the Protected Areas Act 2010 process. Discussions also identified the Resource Management Category as the preferred designation, subject to further customary consultations, boundary discussions and completion of legal requirements. The sessions provided awareness on the protected areas process, enabled dialogue on customary land ownership and boundaries, and introduced a mapping exercise to identify taboo sites, cultural landmarks and tribal boundaries. Participants also elected a Management Committee representing sister tribes to guide the next phase of the process, including engagement with neighbouring tribes and preparation of a draft management plan and budget. Members of the Lasi Tribal Group expressed interest in continuing discussions on conservation arrangements for the Barahau–Longa area, contingent on further internal consultation and agreement. The newly formed committee will coordinate with government agencies and development partners to progress documentation required under the protected areas framework. As part of the consultation, participants undertook preliminary tribal mapping and agreed to engage neighbouring tribes on boundary alignment ahead of formal boundary-signing consultations. The initiative forms part of a nationally recognised 12-step process for establishing protected areas, which includes community consultations, mapping, planning and eventual declaration by the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology. Officials said the process allows tribes to proceed at their own pace, guided by consensus and customary decision-making, an approach reinforced during earlier consultations in the Upper Tina Catchment in December 2025. John Walenenea Jr., biodiversity officer for TRHDP, said the Lasi Tribal Group’s decision demonstrated strong local leadership and commitment to conservation. “The Lasi Tribal Group’s decision reflects strong local leadership and a shared commitment to protect biodiversity, water resources and cultural heritage while allowing sustainable community use,” he said. “Today’s outcome moves us from awareness into action.” Trevor Maeda of the Environment and Conservation Division said the Protected Areas Act provides a legal framework for customary landowners to safeguard their land. “The Protected Areas Act provides a clear legal framework for customary landowners to safeguard their lands for future generations,” he said. “The Lasi community has taken a decisive step, and MECDM will continue to guide them through the remaining steps of the process.” The Management Committee, based in the Bahomea region, is expected to convene with support from the Project Office to review meeting outcomes, undertake boundary consultations with neighbouring tribes and initiate a management plan and budget for the proposed area. TRHDP’s biodiversity engagements in the Upper Tina Catchment aim to support community-led conservation by aligning customary processes with national requirements, with a focus on consensus-building, dispute resolution, boundary clarity and governance readiness. The Tina River Hydropower Development Project is the first large-scale renewable energy project in the Solomon Islands, aimed at delivering more affordable electricity and improving access to cleaner, more reliable energy for communities. The project is being implemented by the Solomon Islands Government with financing and support from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, the Asian Development Bank, the Government of Australia, the Green Climate Fund, Korea EX-IM Economic Development Cooperation Fund, and the World Bank.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development has launched the Agriculture Investment for Markets and Nutrition (AIM-N) Project in Western Province, aiming to strengthen agriculture, improve nutrition and boost rural incomes. The project was officially launched in Gizo by Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development Franklyn Derek Wasi in partnership with the Western Provincial Government led by Premier Billy Veo. The event brought together provincial leaders, representatives from the education, health and agriculture sectors, women’s groups and members of the AIM-N project team. Wasi said the initiative represents a renewed commitment to farmers, fisherfolk, rural women and youth, and to the future of agriculture and nutrition in the Solomon Islands. “Today marks more than the commencement of a project. It marks a renewed commitment to our farmers, fisherfolk, rural women and youth, and to the future of agriculture and nutrition in our country,” he said. He said Western Province has long played an important role in the country’s agricultural and fisheries production, producing commodities such as cocoa, coconut, root crops and marine resources that sustain thousands of rural households. Wasi said the project aims to create long-term systems that expand economic opportunities in rural communities. “This initiative is not about short-term assistance. It is about building systems. It is about creating opportunity and transforming rural livelihoods in a way that is sustainable and inclusive,” he said. He added that farmers continue to face challenges including limited market access, climate risks, post-harvest losses and inadequate infrastructure. The AIM-N project is implemented through a partnership between the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The programme will support stronger market linkages for farmers, improved productivity and climate resilience, nutrition-sensitive agriculture, greater participation of women and youth in agribusiness and institutional strengthening at both national and provincial levels. Wasi emphasised that women and young people will play a central role in the programme. “If we are serious about rural transformation, we must ensure that women have access to productive resources, finance and leadership opportunities. We must also create pathways for young people to see agriculture not as subsistence but as enterprise,” he said. Premier Veo welcomed the initiative and thanked the national government and development partners for including Western Province in the programme. He said the project would strengthen service delivery to rural communities by providing technical and financial support to farmers and families, enabling them to produce nutritious food while generating sustainable incomes. Veo also highlighted the importance of public awareness during implementation to ensure communities understand how they can participate in the programme. Western Province Minister for Agriculture and Forestry Isaac Jenty said the project aligns with the Western Provincial Agricultural Sector Plan 2023–2027 and supports efforts to strengthen smallholder farming and agricultural value chains. Western Province Minister for Education Gordon Zebo said the initiative would also help promote healthier school environments by supporting the reintroduction of school gardens and encouraging the consumption of nutritious local food. Meanwhile, Western Province Minister for Health Kenneth George said improving nutrition is essential to addressing the country’s growing non-communicable disease crisis, noting that such illnesses account for around 60 to 70 percent of deaths in the Solomon Islands. The AIM-N Project is a six-year programme valued at about $20 million. Launched nationally in July 2025, it aims to improve food security, nutrition and rural incomes for more than 18,000 people, representing about 6,100 households in Choiseul, Isabel and Western provinces.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) is advancing the rollout of its Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS), with a focus on building in-house capability through a Training of Trainers programme. The initiative, led by the Department of Treasury and Finance, forms part of the government’s broader push to strengthen public financial management using the FreeBalance Accountability Suite. ABG Secretary for Treasury and Finance Joshua Tauko said the project, launched in August 2025, has achieved several key milestones. “These include the completion of a business process review, systems configuration for critical workflows, approval of a new Chart of Accounts for the 2027 budget, installation of a private internet data link, and improved power and connectivity solutions,” he said. As part of the capacity-building component, selected public servants in Buka are undergoing hands-on training as “super users” of the system. “These trainers will cascade knowledge across departments, ensuring local ownership, long-term sustainability, and reduced reliance on external consultants,” Tauko said. He added that the reform supports the digitalisation and capacity-building priorities outlined in the Department of Treasury and Finance Corporate Plan 2023–2027. The IFMIS is designed to strengthen governance through standardised controls and compliance mechanisms, enhance accountability through real-time monitoring, and improve transparency by making financial data more accessible. Officials said the system aligns with the Bougainville Integrated Strategic Development Plan 2023–2027 and the region’s Long Term Vision 2052, which aim to support a self-reliant and sovereign future. The training programme is also expected to ensure that Bougainville’s public service can independently manage and sustain the system, particularly as revenues expand from major projects such as Panguna and broader sectoral growth.

The Minister for Culture and Tourism, Choylin Douglas, on 13 March officially opened the newly upgraded Raiders Hotel in Tulagi, Gela, Central Islands Province. The opening marks a significant milestone for the hotel’s owners and management and provides a major boost for tourism development in Central Islands Province and the Solomon Islands. The hotel’s upgrade forms part of the Ministry’s 2025 budget support programme for tourism operators, which aims to enhance the country’s tourism infrastructure and competitiveness. “This initiative is a testament to the strong partnership between the Government and local tourism operators,” said Minister Douglas. “Together, we have worked to upgrade tourism facilities to a level where they are ready to receive more visitors and contribute to the growth of the sector.” The Ministry of Culture and Tourism supported several major local operators, including Paringiju Inland Mountain Lodge, Zaru Hotel, Double Islands Resort and Raiders Hotel, to upgrade and expand their facilities. Minister Douglas praised the joint venture partnership between foreign and local investors, saying it combines international expertise, capital and networks with local ownership and knowledge, strengthening the tourism industry and creating opportunities for local communities. She encouraged tourism operators in Tulagi and Central Province to collaborate on tour packages and experiences, and called on land and resource owners to work with operators to develop attractive sites and visitor attractions. The National Government, through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, remains committed to supporting viable projects that contribute to the growth of the tourism industry. Raiders Hotel plans to establish a dive shop, swimming pool, jetty and spa, enhancing the visitor experience and attracting more tourists. Minister Douglas congratulated the shareholders, directors and management of Raiders Hotel on their achievement and thanked them for their partnership with the Government in developing tourism. The hotel is now open for business, offering improved facilities and services to visitors. Tulagi Island, located off the south coast of Gela, holds a special place in the Solomon Islands’ history as the country’s first capital during the British Protectorate period. This charming island is home to a wealth of historic attractions, including the former British High Commissioner’s Residence, the historic Tulagi Prison, and relics from World War II, including underground tunnels dug during the war. The island’s pristine waters are teeming with marine life, making it a haven for divers and nature lovers. With its rich history, stunning scenery and abundant marine life, Tulagi Island is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Authors: Dentons Matt Coleman — Partner, Construction, Melbourne (bio link) Wavie Kendino Leki — Partner and Head of Office, Port Moresby (bio link) Steve Patrick — Partner, Commercial/Corporate, Port Moresby (bio link) Ian Clarke, OBE — Special Counsel and Consultant, Corporate, Sydney (bio link)   Executive Summary The Pacific Quality Infrastructure Principles (PQI), endorsed by Pacific leaders in 2021, set out a bold vision for infrastructure that is resilient, inclusive, and locally led. At the 2025 Pacific Infrastructure Conference in Brisbane, that vision was tested and, in many cases, realised. Across dozens of sessions, case studies, and bilateral dialogues, the region’s governments, contractors, financiers, and communities demonstrated how the PQI are being embedded in practice. The following sections explore how the PQI are being operationalised across the Pacific, drawing on examples from infrastructure planning, procurement reform, climate finance, and delivery models. It also considers the legal architecture that enables and scales these efforts, positioning the law as a foundational enabler of PQI implementation and supporting high-quality infrastructure across the region. Local Content and Workforce Development — From Policy to Practice   The PQI’s first principle — that infrastructure should build local capacity beyond physical assets — is increasingly being realised across the Pacific. The shift from participation to empowerment is evident in how governments, chambers of commerce, and contractors are rethinking delivery models. In Tuvalu, the Chamber of Commerce has articulated a clear vision for infrastructure that leaves behind skills, not just structures. With a small but resilient workforce and growing interest in trades and entrepreneurship, Tuvalu is seeking partnerships that embed training, subcontracting, and supply-chain inclusion. Similar sentiments were expressed by Niue, Kiribati and the Federated States of Micronesia, where local businesses are eager to participate in logistics, catering, and construction. Fiji’s Commerce and Employers’ Federation (FCEF) highlighted a workforce of more than 300,000, with 17,000 annual graduates and a proven track record in delivering donor-funded projects. FCEF is actively connecting contractors with skilled tradespeople, suppliers and workforce development partners — demonstrating that local engagement is not only a social benefit but also a commercial advantage. Contractors are responding. Reeves Envico’s work in Kiribati includes training women in carpentry, painting, and site administration. Hatanga’s partnership with BY Group in Solomon Islands is delivering projects with 90% local procurement and workforce participation. Hall Contracting’s wharf project in Nui, Tuvalu, overcame extreme remoteness and corrosive conditions through pre-planning, prefabrication, and local labour mobilisation. Collectively, these examples illustrate that local content is no longer merely a compliance requirement — it is a strategic imperative. However, scaling these efforts requires legal frameworks that embed local participation into procurement, contracting, and performance management. This includes: mandating local labour quotas in public procurement structuring joint ventures with local firms recognising local training and certification pathways embedding local content into bid evaluation criteria Climate Resilience and Lifecycle Planning — Infrastructure That Endures   The PQI place climate resilience at the heart of infrastructure planning and delivery. In a region where rising seas, cyclones, and extreme weather events are lived realities, resilience is not a luxury — it is a necessity. At the 2025 Pacific Infrastructure Conference, this principle was demonstrated through a diverse array of projects, strategies, and institutional reforms. One of the most compelling examples came from Samoa, where the Green Ports Initiative has transformed Apia Port into a model of climate-smart infrastructure. Supported by the Asian Development Bank and technical experts from Haskoning, the initiative delivered 42 targeted upgrades across five domains: environmental management, operational efficiency, disaster preparedness, climate resilience, and social sustainability. Upgrades included solar PV installations, smart lighting, rainwater harvesting, and electrification of port operations. The initiative also produced a Green Ports Policy, a Practice Manual, and a Multi-Hazard Preparedness Plan — tools now being replicated in Tonga and Fiji. In the Cook Islands, a quantitative adaptation planning framework was used to assess climate risks to critical assets such as Rarotonga International Airport and Avatiu Harbour. The methodology combined detailed asset-level data with multi-hazard modelling of heat stress, sea-level rise, storm surge and extreme rainfall. The result was a set of adaptation scenarios ranging from business-as-usual to maximum protection, each evaluated through multi-criteria analysis. This evidence-based approach now informs national infrastructure strategies and investment prioritisation. The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) has also made significant strides. Entura, the consulting arm of Hydro Tasmania, has worked across all four states to deliver renewable energy projects aligned with FSM’s nationally determined contributions under the Paris Agreement. These included solar and battery energy storage systems (BESS), disaster-proof generation equipment and feasibility studies for future investments. Entura’s work is notable for integrating climate risk assessments, stakeholder engagement and capacity building. In Papua New Guinea (PNG), the Resilient Infrastructure Guide — developed by the Economic and Social Infrastructure Program (ESIP) with the Government of PNG — provides a comprehensive framework for embedding resilience throughout the infrastructure lifecycle. It outlines principles for climate risk assessment, stakeholder alignment and whole-of-life value, with practical tools for integrating resilience into procurement, design, construction and maintenance. Case studies from Lae Market and Metoreia Health Centre illustrate how resilience can be built into materials selection, ventilation systems, water harvesting and maintenance planning. Together, these initiatives reflect a regional shift from reactive adaptation to proactive resilience. Infrastructure is no longer designed solely for functionality — it is designed for durability. This shift requires governments to embed resilience into planning codes, procurement criteria and performance standards; donors and financiers to require climate risk integration; and contractors to adopt lifecycle costing and resilience metrics. Community-Led Design and Social Inclusion — Infrastructure That Reflects Local Realities   The PQI emphasise that infrastructure must be designed not simply for communities, but with them. Community-led design is increasingly recognised as essential to ensuring infrastructure is inclusive, sustainable and fit for purpose. At the 2025 Pacific Infrastructure Conference, this principle was demonstrated through various projects across the region. In Solomon Islands, the Buala Market project shows how infrastructure can be shaped by local needs. Community input informed layout, access, and functionality, resulting in a facility that supports local livelihoods, enhances food security and strengthens social cohesion. Climate-resilient design features mitigate flood risk and support long-term maintenance. In Kiribati, the redevelopment of Betio Hospital’s maternal and children’s wing was guided by principles of simplicity, durability and cultural appropriateness. The design prioritised ease of cleaning, passive ventilation and family congregation spaces, all informed by local consultation. The project also created employment opportunities for women in skilled trades. The Hatanga–BY Group partnership in Solomon Islands further demonstrates community-embedded delivery models. Their work in Temotu Province involved local engineers in geotechnical investigations, concrete mix design and prefabrication. The model — combining Australian certifications with Solomon Islands labour and logistics — is now being scaled to Tuvalu, Vanuatu and Honiara. Workforce inclusion is also being advanced through the IFC’s Meri Save Trades program, which helps firms recruit and retain women in construction. Support includes inclusive recruitment guidance, gender-sensitive workplace policies, appropriately fitted PPE and menstrual health accommodations. Participating firms report improved retention, productivity and workplace culture. Reeves Envico’s training programs in Kiribati include forklift certification, Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) workshops and career development pathways — all embedded into project delivery rather than treated as add-ons. From a legal perspective, community-led design requires frameworks that go beyond consultation. Governments must embed inclusive design principles into planning codes, procurement templates and performance standards. Contractors must demonstrate how projects reflect community needs and support social outcomes. Donors and financiers must integrate social safeguards into funding agreements. Community-led design is ultimately about co-creation. It recognises that infrastructure is not neutral — and that its design, delivery and operation must reflect the values and aspirations of the people it serves. Governance, Standards and Procurement Reform — Enabling Quality Delivery   The PQI call for governance frameworks that support quality outcomes. This includes the legal architecture of procurement and contracting, as well as the technical standards, institutional capacity and performance management systems that underpin infrastructure delivery. Across the Pacific, governments and regional bodies are strengthening these foundations. The South Pacific Engineers Association (SPEA) is leading efforts to harmonise engineering standards across PNG, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Cook Islands and Vanuatu. Its partnership with Engineering New Zealand (ENZ) and New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) aims to provide online access to New Zealand and Australian design codes, expand continuing professional development (CPD) pathways, and create accreditation routes for technicians and engineers. These initiatives enable regional labour mobility and ensure consistent infrastructure quality. In PNG, the Business Council is advocating for reforms to streamline procurement, clarify public-private partnership (PPP) guidelines and digitise permitting systems. Technical working groups on macroeconomics, ESG, revenue and infrastructure are producing policy papers feeding into government-business consultative forums that align public and private priorities. In Tonga, the National Transport Research Organisation (NTRO) is implementing a Strategic Transport Infrastructure Advisory Program across six islands. It includes surveying 500 km of roads, inspecting six airports and developing asset management systems, laboratory certification, training programs and sustainability analysis aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. NTRO’s approach provides a model for embedding technical advisory in national planning. These efforts demonstrate that governance is not only about rules — it is about capability. Legal frameworks must support standards harmonisation, procurement reform and institutional strengthening. This includes: drafting procurement laws that embed the PQI creating bid evaluation criteria that reward quality, resilience and inclusion establishing independent infrastructure commissions or technical panels aligning national standards with international benchmarks (e.g. ISO, IEC, ASTM) Financing and Delivery Models — Matching Vision with Resources   SPEA’s work to harmonise engineering standards and expand accreditation pathways is essential to enabling regional mobility and technical consistency. Regional integration also requires legal frameworks that support mutual recognition, cross-border procurement and trade facilitation. This includes: drafting mutual recognition agreements for engineering and construction professionals creating regional procurement platforms and standardised tender documents aligning customs and logistics regulations to support infrastructure delivery supporting regional infrastructure corridors (e.g. undersea cables, aviation agreements) Conclusion: From Principles to Practice   The PQI are no longer aspirational — they are being embedded in the region’s infrastructure landscape through community-led design, climate-resilient planning and inclusive delivery models. The 2025 Pacific Infrastructure Conference showcased a region that is not only committed to these principles but actively shaping its future around them. To sustain momentum, Pacific governments, development partners and the private sector must now focus on institutionalising these gains. This means embedding the PQI into legislation, procurement systems and performance frameworks — not as optional guidelines, but as core requirements. Legal frameworks will determine whether tomorrow’s infrastructure reflects today’s values. In the Pacific, those values are clear: resilience, inclusion and regional solidarity. The challenge now is to translate these values into enforceable standards, scalable models and enduring partnerships. The PQI agenda is not just about building infrastructure — it is about building trust, opportunity and shared prosperity. From principles to practice, the journey continues. For more information, visit the Pacific Quality Infrastructure Principles online.

Weir has been awarded a contract to supply a 150 tph crushing and screening plant for Bezant’s Hope and Gorob Copper-Gold Project in Namibia. The value of the agreement has not been disclosed. The order includes: an ENDURON® ET905 jaw crusher; an ENDURON® ET906 jaw crusher; a Trio® TF4012 vibrating grizzly feeder; a Trio® EF3605 vibrating pan feeder; a Trio® TIOSP6162 scalping screen; conveyor belts; and the supporting steel structure. Weir recently launched its new range of ENDURON® jaw crushers, which have been developed to enhance safety, boost productivity, simplify maintenance and support its customers’ sustainability goals. The updated ENDURON® jaw crushers now feature a redesigned Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU), which allows for true push-button control of CSS adjustments. This new feature eliminates the need for manual intervention, significantly reducing safety risks for operators and maintenance teams. The new HPU also ensures consistent tensioning of the retraction springs at all times, improving reliability and ease of use across the full wear range of the jaw dies. The optimised motor power and oil tank capacity reduce the HPU’s CO2 footprint and reduce environmental impact. To further improve performance and reduce downtime, the entire range of ENDURON® jaw crushers now include ESCO® wear parts. These components extend wear life, which means fewer maintenance interventions and increased equipment utilisation – translating to lower operating costs and more efficient production. JD Singleton, Weir Comminution Director for Europe, Middle East and Africa, said: ‘There is obviously a lot of time, effort and resources that go into designing, developing and bringing to market new products. The range of ENDURON® jaw crushers was developed in close collaboration with our customers, so we’ve been confident throughout the entire process that these crushers will help miners overcome some of their most pressing operational challenges. Nevertheless, it’s rewarding to see this work come to fruition and the crushers performing well in some of the most arduous crushing applications. Today, Singleton said that miners are taking a more holistic view of their operations; rather than looking at pieces of equipment in isolation, they are increasingly considering how what happens upstream impacts what’s happening downstream, and vice versa. "In other words, there’s more of a focus on optimising the entire flowsheet," he said. As an end-to-end solutions provider, Weir has long understood the value of this approach. "We’ve worked closely with Bezant and its partners to develop a crushing and screening solution for the Hope and Gorob project that optimises the entire flowsheet and enables them to meet their ambitious production targets," Singleton said. Martyn Churchouse, Bezant Technical Director, said: ‘We are pleased to collaborate with Weir on this project. Their service centre, located less than an hour from the mine site, significantly reduces project risk from a service and support perspective. We recognise that crushing and screening plants require extensive maintenance, and having a hands-on partner who supports and stands behind their own equipment is essential to ensuring our success.’ About the Weir Group PLC Founded in 1871, The Weir Group PLC is one of the world’s leading engineering businesses with a purpose to make its mining and infrastructure customers’ operations more sustainable and efficient. Weir’s highly engineered technology enables critical resources to be produced using less energy, water and waste while reducing customers’ total cost of ownership. Weir is ideally positioned to benefit from structural trends that support long-term demand for its technology, including the need for more essential metals to support economic development and the carbon transition. The Group has c.12,000 employees operating in over 50 countries,with a presence in every major mining region of the world. Find out more at www.global.weir.com.

 As Papua New Guinea enters a new phase of economic momentum, attention is turning to where business, policy and investment intersect, and, in May 2026, this conversation will take centre stage in Brisbane. The 41st Australia Papua New Guinea Business Forum & Trade Expo will convene in Brisbane from 13–15 May 2026, bringing together business leaders, investors and policymakers for three days of high-level engagement focused on the Pacific’s largest economy. Set against the electric atmosphere of the NRL Magic Round, this year’s Forum promises a unique blend of business opportunity and citywide excitement. Under the theme Game On for Growth, it signals a moment of renewed momentum in PNG’s economy and a clear invitation for businesses to engage. PNG is entering a new phase of economic activity, driven by major resource developments, infrastructure investment and expanding sectors such as agriculture, telecommunications and services. For companies looking to enter or grow in this market, the Forum offers unmatched access to the people and insights that matter. Where opportunity meets access The Forum brings together senior government representatives, industry leaders and investors from both PNG and Australia. It provides a platform to hear directly from decision-makers about policy priorities, regulatory developments and upcoming investment opportunities. The programme reflects the breadth of PNG’s economic landscape. Delegates will hear keynote addresses from PNG and Australian leaders, alongside sessions on economic infrastructure, agriculture and major projects in energy and resources. Critical forward-looking themes will also be explored, including artificial intelligence, labour market transformation, sustainability and carbon markets, telecommunications, and SME development. Sessions on Bougainville and PNG’s infrastructure pipeline will further deepen understanding of emerging opportunities. The Trade Expo: where business happens Running alongside the Forum, the Trade Expo will be a focal point for visibility and engagement. Open from 13 to 15 May, it provides companies with the opportunity to showcase their goods and services to a highly targeted audience of decision-makers and industry leaders. With limited booth availability and strong demand expected, the Expo is where conversations translate into commercial outcomes. Book early to secure your spot. Networking that delivers results From the opening cocktail function to the conference dinner and dedicated networking receptions, the Forum is designed to foster meaningful connections. These interactions often lead to long-term partnerships, making the Forum a catalyst for business across borders. A partnership built over decades Australia and PNG share a long-standing relationship grounded in history, trade and close people-to-people ties. Since PNG’s independence in 1975, the two countries have developed strong economic links across resources, infrastructure, finance and services. For more than 40 years, the Australia Papua New Guinea Business Council (APNGBC) has worked closely with government and industry stakeholders to strengthen commercial ties and promote bilateral engagement. The Forum is delivered in collaboration with counterparts in PNG, including the Business Council of Papua New Guinea, reflecting the depth of private sector partnerships between the two countries. Backed by leaders in business The 41st Forum is supported by a strong line-up of partners and sponsors actively engaged in Papua New Guinea’s growth story. These include Kramer Asia Pacific, Investment Promotion Authority PNG, ExxonMobil, Kina Bank, Pronto Software, Pacific Marine Group, Westpac, SMEC, Austrade, Trade & Investment Queensland (TIQ), Santos, CC Pacific, ANZ Bank, Dentons, Steamships, Qantas and many more. Be there With Brisbane alive to the energy of the Magic Round and the Pacific’s premier business forum in full swing, May 2026 presents a rare convergence of opportunity and engagement. If Papua New Guinea is on your business horizon, this is where you need to be. Secure your place, and be part of the conversations shaping the future of the Pacific’s largest market. Register before 31 March to go into the draw to win two NRL Magic Round tickets*. T&Cs apply. Click here to register or scan the QR code.                     Link: https://events.apngbc.org.au/event/41APBF/home.html