Issue 3

Welcome to Issue 3, 2026 of Pacific Business Review.

In this edition, we examine the progress of a Pacific deep-sea mining project as it advances toward commercial production. The development highlights both the opportunities and challenges associated with unlocking the region's vast seabed mineral resources at a time when global demand for critical minerals continues to accelerate.

That theme continues in our commentary, Critical Minerals: Big Deals and Bigger Disputes on the Horizon?, which explores how competition for strategic resources is reshaping investment decisions, supply chains and geopolitical relationships. As countries seek secure and diversified sources of critical minerals, the Pacific is increasingly becoming part of a much larger global equation.

Regional partnerships also remain central to the Pacific's growth story. Business councils have welcomed Queensland's Pacific strategy, recognising the role of trade, investment and private-sector collaboration in strengthening economic ties between Australia and Pacific Island nations. Such initiatives reinforce the importance of long-term engagement in supporting sustainable development and shared prosperity across the region.

At the same time, the Commonwealth Digital Roadshow's debut in Vanuatu highlights the growing importance of technology and digital inclusion. Expanding digital skills, encouraging innovation and improving access to digital tools will be critical as Pacific economies seek to boost productivity, create opportunities and participate more fully in an increasingly connected world.

Beyond these features, this edition covers developments across mining, energy, infrastructure, finance, agriculture, tourism and technology. Together, these stories reflect a Pacific region that is evolving with confidence—embracing new opportunities while navigating the challenges that come with growth and change.

Thank you for reading.