In this bulletin:
1. PACIFIC — Pacific voices amplified in global plastic pollution negotiations
2. PACIFIC — ‘We continue to weather the storm:’ Regional leader says lingering fuel crisis calls for energy-use cut in the Pacific
3. FIJI — Fiji sets aside $61.9 million for Elections, referendum and 2027 census
4. AUST — Vanuatu PM Meets diaspora, honours former aide ahead of Albanese talks
5. FIJI — Fiji allocates $56.6 million to expand global diplomatic presence
6. PACIFIC — Pacific Ocean a ‘forever chemical’ hotspot for whales
7. PACIFIC — PNG Women’s health advocate named 2026 Commonwealth Pacific regional Youth award winner
8. PACIFIC — Japan weighs deploying unmanned submarines in Pacific defence buildup
9. NZ — Pacific health leaders say evidence is clear, action is lagging
10. PACNEWS BIZ — Taiwan-Tuvalu Tax Agreement takes effect in 2027
11. PACNEWS BIZ — Fiji sets up $5 million Tuna Development Fund in 28.4 million fisheries budget
12. PACNEWS DIGEST — Pacific voices shape regional solid waste management dialogue in Japan
PAC – PLASTIC POLLUTION: SPREP PACNEWS 2: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Pacific voices amplified in global plastic pollution negotiations
SUVA, 29 JUNE 2026 (SPREP)—Tackling the transboundary plastic pollution problem remains on the agenda this year with the global community uniting next week in Nairobi.
Living in the world’s largest ocean, plastic pollution is a critical issue for our Pacific islands, they will be meeting in person with over 190 countries to find a way forward.
Every year over 19 million tonnes of plastic waste leaks into aquatic ecosystems, polluting lakes, rivers and seas with over 75 million tonnes of plastic now estimated to be in the ocean.
In March 2022 a historic resolution was adopted to develop an international legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution including in the marine environment. This work has been conducted through an Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) consisting of representatives from over 190 countries to develop text for this instrument.
Across the period of four years from 2022 to 2026, seven sessions have been held leading to the Heads of Delegation meeting to be held in Nairobi next week. These are known as INC’s with INC 1 to 4 having taken place as well as three sessions of INC 5, those being INC 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3.
“As a Pacific Islands region we tackle this issue at all levels, we are working towards a global treaty that will help end plastic pollution and that’s significant for us given our large ocean and limited land space,” said Anthony Talouli, Director of Waste Management and Pollution Control of the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP).
“While we work to have this happen, we’re also taken steps nationally as well as regionally – our Pacific islands are passing legislation to end single-use plastics, some have banned single-use plastic items, others are putting value to recycling plastics such as collecting fees to manage plastic at its end of life, whilst continuing to collect data through marine litter surveys and coastal clean ups. Our Pacific leadership is being demonstrated in so many ways as we work to tackle this huge problem,” he said.
Partnerships play a key role in advancing Pacific Islands voices in the international legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution.
SPREP has worked with Pacific Islands as they negotiate, including coordination of a range of webinars supported by partners, and holding Pacific Islands meetings to strategise a way forward.
The range of issues covered in the negotiations includes plastic products and design, releases and leakages, plastic waste management, existing and legacy plastic pollution, amongst many other areas of concern.
From 30 June to 03 July at the United Nations Environment Programme Office in Nairobi, 12 Pacific Heads of Delegations are confirmed to engage in the ongoing discussions as the world prepares for the fourth part of the resumed session of the INC (INC5.4).
“We understand that these types of negotiations feel so far removed from the everyday happenings in our lives as Pacific islands people, yet the reality is that what is agreed to at this global level will impact us all on the ground eventually,” said Talouli.
“Plastic pollution is a very real, visible problem – where do we put plastic when we no longer have any use for it? How do we address the chemicals within plastic which may have harmful effects on human health? How do we protect our ocean backyards from transboundary plastic pollution? Just this week our team whilst carrying our coastal surveys in Wallis and Futuna found plastic PET water bottles from Samoa. All of these can be addressed in this global treaty – it’s imperative that we are heard in these spaces,” he said.
The Informal in-person meeting of Heads of Delegation to the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution will take place from 30 June to 03 July 2026 in Nairobi.
The Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu have confirmed attendance to the Heads of Delegation meeting and will be supported by SPREP……PACNEWS
PAC – FUEL CRISIS: PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS 2: Mon 29 Jun 2026
‘We continue to weather the storm:’ Regional leader says lingering fuel crisis calls for energy-use cut in the Pacific
By Lisa Leilani Williams
MAJURO, 29 JUNE 2026 (PACIFIC ISLAND TIMES) — The fuel crisis is a Pacific challenge that requires a Pacific response, according to David Paul, chair of the Forum Economic Ministerial.
Economists note that the impact of the global oil crisis lingers despite the ceasefire agreement between the U.S and Iran.
“In terms of being responsible leaders and stewards of this crisis, we have to implement the same measures and cut down on energy consumption. We continue to weather the storm,” Paul said at a press briefing at the conclusion of FEMM 2026 held in the Marshall Islands from 22 – 24 June.
He cautioned that the Pacific island region cannot be complacent, given that peace is tentative and prices will remain volatile.
“We all know the MOU between Iran and the U.S is basically an agreement to negotiate an agreement. What does that mean? I really can’t say too much on that,” he said.
“We continue to recognise we are at the end of the global supply chain when it comes to fuel,” Paul added.
The slice of time Pacific business leaders get to present directly at the FEMM can deliver greater value for the region, said Mark Stege, a member of the Pacific Islands Private Sector Organisation board.
Stege, a Majuro-based consultant and former president of the RMI Chamber of Commerce, was the voice of the Pacific private sector at FEMM.
Having attended many previous ministerials and PIPSO meetings, he is keen to see how PIPSO can best use its access to Pacific leaders.
The private-sector voice has been a standing agenda item at the economic ministerial for more than a decade.
The FEMM itself developed and launched the PIPSO concept soon after Forum Leaders endorsed the idea of hearing directly from Pacific business leaders in 2005.
PIPSO has since evolved into a Pacific-wide connected network of Chamber of Commerce reps with a secretariat based in Suva.
But, after donor funding cycles and two decades since its inception, PIPSO is keen to revamp and reinforce its founding mandate.
For its North Pacific lead, this involves taking the top 10 recommendations from an extensive internal review and applying them to help drive PIPSO ownership of a new strategy for the Pacific private sector.
“PIPSO has a strong implementing role in the (FEMM) Pacific regional private sector strategy,” Stege said.
The strategy has been developed and drafted by the secretariat over the last year or so as part of PRED and support.
Sources say that, depending on the next steps, it will either head to the Pacific Forum Leaders for endorsement this year or await the 2027 leaders meeting.
Stege focused on the strategy in his commentary to the ministers, affirming PIPSO’s input and relevance to ensure the words on paper come to life.
“I acknowledged what they wanted to speak on,” Stege said of the FEMM focus on the global energy crisis and the focus on fuel supplies, “but I also wanted to speak to PIPSO’s revitalization and current review and why it’s worthy of their support.”
He said interventions from the Marshall Islands Chamber of Commerce ensured the spotlight on energy and fuel prices was raised.
While the FEMM outcomes from the two-day sessions are pending, Baron Waqa, secretary general of the Pacific Islands Forum, and his FEMM 2026 chair hinted at what it will cover: messaging on the ongoing fuel, economic, climate and geopolitical crises and the need for a Pacific 2050 response will be key.
There was also mention of how the Biketawa Declaration will support next steps and practical solutions, including digital innovation through the Lomalo Wallet initiative, and progress on the FEMM’s ongoing focus on two key acronyms: the PRED, which stands for Pacific Roadmap for Economic Development, and the PRF, or the Pacific Resilience Facility.
The FEMM 2026 outcomes are expected to link the PRED and the PRF with more details of how Pacific economic ministers will weather the current crises.
Baron Waqa, secretary general of the Pacific Islands Forum, noted that the PRF, which will be headquartered in Tonga, is a step closer to opening its doors.
“We are at the point where we stand up and operationalize the PRF,” he said. “Ministers will sit in the council (meeting) of the PRF. They will be very proud that they are here at this very crucial moment in our Pacific history,” Waqa said…. PACNEWS
FIJI – ELECTION/POLITICS: PACNEWS PACNEWS 2: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Fiji sets aside $61.9 million for Elections, referendum and 2027 census
SUVA, 29 JUNE 2-26 (PACNEWS)—The Fiji Government has allocated a total of $61.9 million(US$30.95 million) in the 2026-2027 Budget to prepare for the upcoming General Election, a national referendum and the 2027 Census.
In his Budget Address last Friday, Finance Minister Immanuel Esrom said Fiji was approaching another key stage in its democratic journey.
“The people of Fiji will soon have the opportunity to assess our record, judge our performance and determine the future direction of our nation through the ballot box. We welcome that opportunity with confidence and respect for the democratic process,” he said.
The Minister also announced that the Fijian Elections Office will receive $23.2 million(US$11.6 million) to prepare for the General Election.
“For the conduct of the upcoming elections, the Fijian Elections Office has been allocated a sum of $23.2 million (US$11.6 million) to cater for the preparation of the upcoming General Election.”
“In addition, a separate budget of $18.2 million (US$9.1 million) has been set aside under Head 50 to cater for the main election day expenses.”
The Electoral Commission will receive about $556,000(US$278 million), while $20 million(US$10 million) has been allocated for the national referendum.
“The Electoral Commission is provided a funding of around $556,000(US$278 million), while for the conduct of the national referendum a funding of $20 million (US$10 million) has been set aside,” said Esrom.
The Minister also announced $12 million (US$6 million) for the 2027 Census.
“We will also conduct the 2027 Census with a total funding of $12 million (US$6 million) in this budget.”
Esrom said the Government was presenting the Budget while acknowledging there was more work to be done.
“We present this Budget knowing that much work remains to be done, but also knowing that Fiji is stronger, more resilient and better positioned than it was three and a half years ago.
Together, we have laid the foundations. Together, we have restored hope and confidence. And together, we can continue building a prosperous, inclusive and united Fiji for generations to come,” he said…PACNEWS
AUST – DIPLOMACY: PACNEWS/VANUATU GOVT PACNEWS 2: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Vanuatu PM Meets diaspora, honours former aide ahead of Albanese talks
CANBERRA, 29 JUNE 2026 (PACNEWS/VANUATU GOVT) —Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat has begun his visit to Canberra by meeting the Vanuatu community, visiting the Vanuatu High Commission and paying tribute to a former aide before holding bilateral talks with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Napat met with the Vanuatu community in Canberra before formal discussions with the Australian Government.
“The PM met with the small but strongly connected Vanuatu community in Canberra. Laughter, stories in Bislama, and a shared pride in where we come from filled the park. Even far from home, the spirit of the nakamal was there with kava shared with the community.”
The statement said the gathering allowed members of the delegation and the community to spend time together.
“It was a chance for the delegation to mingle and share food, with everyone. For the PM, it was a reminder of why this work matters — building stronger ties between our nations while never forgetting the people who carry Vanuatu’s name across the world.”
The Prime Minister is scheduled to meet Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese alongside Minister for Foreign Affairs Marc Ati, Minister for Trade Samson Samsen and government officials Monday.
“The PM will sit down with PM Albanese, joined by Minister for Foreign Affairs Marc Ati and Minister for Trade Samson Samsen and government officials.”
Napat and his delegation also visited the Vanuatu High Commission in Canberra, where they were welcomed by Acting High Commissioner Ernest Guy Sumptoh.
“It was a warm reunion led by Acting High Commissioner. Ernest Guy Sumptoh, who has been holding the fort with dedication. The PM thanked him and the team for keeping the Vanuatu flag flying high and for serving our community here with pride.”
The Prime Minister’s Office said the mission will soon be headed by High Commissioner-designate Jimmy Nipo.
“The office will soon welcome its Head of Mission, Jimmy Nipo set to take up post as High Commissioner shortly. That’s another big step in strengthening Vanuatu’s presence in Australia.”
Ahead of the meeting with Albanese, Napat also visited the grave of Virokanu Tari Nishai Seru, the only ni-Vanuatu buried in Canberra Cemetery.
The statement described Seru as a close aide and political strategist to former Prime Minister Edward Nipake Natapei.
“Virokanu Seru was more than a name in our history. He was a close aide, political strategist, and right-hand to former Prime Minister Edward Nipake Natapei. As a law graduate he served Vanuatu with loyalty, wisdom, and quiet strength.”
It said Seru died suddenly in 2020 after serving under a contract with the Australian Government to prepare Australian officials for postings to Vanuatu.
“In active duty late Seru was given a contract by the Australian Government to prepare Australian officials designated to Vanuatu – teaching them how to speak Bislama. Helping Australia understand not just our policies, but our language, our humour, and our heart.”
PM Napat also laid a wreath at Seru’s grave during the visit.
“A simple gesture, but one that says: ‘we remember you. We honor you. You are not forgotten.”
The statement said Seru’s legacy continues through the officials he trained and the relationships he helped build between Vanuatu and Australia.
“Even in rest, Virokanu continues to build the bridge between Vanuatu and Australia — through the officials he taught, the relationships he shaped, and the legacy he left.”
The statement said the delegation will return home on Tuesday…..PACNEWS
FIJI – DIPLOMACY: PACNEWS/FIJI SUN PACNEWS 2: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Fiji allocates $56.6 million to expand global diplomatic presence
SUVA, 29 JUNE 2026 (PACNEWS/FIJI SUN) —The Fiji Government has allocated $56.6 million (US$28 million) to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade in the 2026-2027 Budget to advance the country’s foreign policy priorities and support its expanding international presence.
In his Budget Address last Friday, Finance Minister Immanuel Esrom said the funding will support Fiji’s network of diplomatic missions and trade commissions.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been allocated $56.6 million (US$28 million) to advance Fiji’s foreign policy priorities and maintain our growing international presence through our 14 diplomatic missions and four Trade Commissions.”
The Minister said Fiji must remain engaged with international partners and markets.
“In today’s global environment, it is important that Fiji remains connected to key partners and markets around the world.
Our overseas missions play an important role in promoting trade, attracting investment, supporting tourism, creating employment opportunities and looking after the interests of Fijians abroad,” he said.
Esrom said the Budget provides continued support for Fiji’s overseas missions, including the operationalisation of Fiji’s Mission in Jerusalem and the reopening of the country’s Mission in Brussels.
“This Budget provides continued support for Fiji’s overseas missions, including the operationalisation of our Mission in Jerusalem and the reopening of Fiji’s Mission in Brussels.
A total budget of $6.3 million (US$3.15 million) has been allocated for both Missions,” he said.
Esrom said the investment will strengthen Fiji’s engagement with international partners and markets.
“These investments will strengthen Fiji’s engagement with key partners and markets, create new opportunities for trade and investment, and ensure Fiji continues to have a strong voice in regional and international affairs,” he said.
Meanwhile, Business leaders say increased funding for foreign affairs will strengthen Fiji’s ability to attract investment, expand trade and build international partnerships.
They welcomed increased funding for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, saying stronger international engagement will create new economic opportunities for Fiji.
Anchor Care Migration and Recruitment Pte Ltd chief executive officer Masudur Rahman said the increased allocation reflected the Government’s commitment to strengthening Fiji’s global engagement while responding to emerging international challenges.
“The Foreign Affairs Ministry’s focus on international engagement through diplomatic missions is a great initiative. It will attract more foreign investors and open doors to multiple opportunities,” Rahman said.
He also welcomed the Government’s plan to reduce investor visa processing times from 21 days to five days, saying it would improve Fiji’s investment climate.
Rahman also supported the $225,000(US$112,5000) allocation to combat human trafficking.
“If this funding is used effectively, it will help prevent international crime syndicates from using Fiji for human trafficking,” he said.
Nadroga-Navosa Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Suresh Naidu said a strong foreign affairs policy was essential for trade and economic stability.
“The chamber views current domestic inflation as largely driven by global supply chain volatility and geopolitical shifts,” Naidu said.
He said maintaining strong international partnerships would help Fiji respond to global economic challenges and strengthen business confidence.”…PACNEWS
PAC – WHALES: AAP PACNEWS 2: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Pacific ocean a ‘forever chemical’ hotspot for whales
SYDNEY, 29 JUNE 2026 (AAP)—Dolphins and whales in the Pacific Ocean have been contaminated by some of the highest levels of so called forever chemicals in the world.
First-time global mapping of per and poly-fluoroaklyl substances, or PFAS, in toothed marine mammals suggests infiltration levels have been rising over the past two decades.
Australian researchers behind the study say more intensive industrial activity and PFAS production in Asian countries could be behind the detected elevations in the Pacific.
By contrast, marine mammals found in the Mediterranean returned lower PFAS readings, potentially reflecting less industry and European Union bans introduced on several compounds.
PFAS are a group of roughly 15,000 toxic, synthetic chemicals known for their resistance to heat, stains and grease.
Found in some non-stick cookware and firefighting foams, they are known as “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down naturally and have been found to build up in the environment, including in the bodies of humans and other animals.
While the science around PFAS is evolving, evidence suggesting it can suppress immune systems and alter hormone levels in mammals is now reasonably robust.
Marine animals are not spared and become exposed when the chemicals leak from homes and factories into waterways, with the substances confirmed in bottlenose dolphin milk.
Predators that eat other contaminated animals, including toothed whales, tend to accumulate the chemicals faster than lower food chain species.
Lead researcher and biological science lecturer at the University of Wollongong, Katharina Peters, said there was still more to learn about the specific health problems inflicted on toothed whales but early indications were concerning.
Disrupted immune systems and fertility were particularly worrying for long-lived species with small populations and compounding threats such as net entanglement and climate change to negotiate.
“The population can’t just make that up,” Dr Peters told
“It’s not like a rat that has dozens of babies per year.’
The study published in Marine Pollution Bulletin relied on more than 700 liver samples collected from stranded toothed whale species over 23 years, some new and others aggregated from earlier research.
While gaps in the dataset remain, it represents the most comprehensive global mapping project yet to understand PFAS load in different toothed whales species and locations.
Widespread, long-lived and top of the food chain, toothed whales serve as a useful indicator for overall ocean contamination patterns, highlighting regions most in need of further monitoring and research.
“Pollution has a geography,” study co-author Frederik Saltre, from the University of Technology Sydney, said.
“The strong differences among ocean regions and toothed whale groups show PFAS exposure is shaped by the intersection of human activity, regional pollution histories and species ecology.”
Until forever chemicals are fully phased out and alternatives discovered, Dr Peters said environmental levels would keep accumulating.
Even with an immediate global ban, PFAS would remain an enduring problem, with no feasible option to clean it up.
“It would be a bit like trying to clean up a house full of glitter.”
In Australia, public awareness and scrutiny of forever chemicals are on the rise due to historical firefighting foam contamination but so far the regulatory response has trailed Europe’s….PACNEWS
PAC – AWARDS: COMSEC PACNEWS 2: Sat 27 Jun 2026
PNG Women’s health advocate named 2026 Commonwealth Pacific regional Youth award winner
LONDON, 29 JUNE 2206 (COMSEC)–Aileen Zuhukepe from Papua New Guinea has been announced as the 2026 Commonwealth Pacific Regional Winner at the 2026 Commonwealth Youth Awards ceremony in London on 25 June.
Government representatives, high commissioners, youth leaders, and other stakeholders attended the award ceremony to celebrate young people’s contributions to sustainable development goals in communities across the Commonwealth.
Aileen founded Project Impact, a voluntary breast ultrasound screening programme serving rural women in her province of Papua New Guinea. Run collaboratively with colleagues and local health workers, the initiative has benefited more than 500 women across three of the province’s 11 districts. She is currently in training to become a medical doctor, driven by her passion for oncology and addressing breast cancer among rural women in Papua New Guinea.
Selected from almost 1,000 applicants across the Commonwealth’s 56 member states after a two-stage adjudication process involving 57 judges, Moesha joins 19 finalists recognised for advancing the Sustainable Development Goals through innovation and community impact.
In her remarks, the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Shirley Botchwey said: “My congratulations to you all finalists. You are already winners. To be selected from across 56 nations is a testament to your courage and your creativity. You embody the very best of our family. You have shown resilience in the face of challenge and innovation in the face of constraint.”
“Today is not about recognition alone — it is about momentum. It is not about isolated excellence — it is about collective advancement. Together, we will continue to strengthen the Commonwealth Youth Programme as a flagship vehicle for youth development in the Commonwealth.”
The Youth Awards support young changemakers aged 15–29 by scaling up their innovation. Since their inception, these awards have invested over £400,000(US$527,000) directly into grassroots youth-led enterprises. The investments have reached more than 12 million beneficiaries, generated over 4,250 jobs, and contributed to all 17 SDGs. Crucially, 40 percent of the funding has supported women-led initiatives—reinforcing the Commonwealth’s mandate for gender equality and inclusive growth.
It was a double victory for Shifra Ainomugisha, from Uganda. She was named the 2026 Commonwealth Young Person of the Year and received the top regional award for Africa, earning her a total prize of £5,000(US$6,598) …. PACNEWS
PAC – DEFENCE: KYODO NEWS PACNEWS 2: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Japan weighs deploying unmanned submarines in Pacific defence buildup
TOKYO, 29 JUNE 2026 (KYODO NEW)—The Japanese government is considering the full-scale development and deployment of unmanned submarines equipped with anti-ship strike capabilities as part of efforts to bolster Japan’s defence posture in the Pacific, sources familiar with the matter said Saturday.
With China seeking to establish its maritime presence, Japan’s defence posture has been criticised for having “gaps.”
The government is expected to explicitly state its “strengthening of response capabilities” in the Pacific in three security-related documents slated for revision by the end of the year, according to the sources.
The government is considering the introduction of unmanned submarines capable of carrying torpedoes and sea mines that could eventually travel long distances over extended periods. There is also a proposal to develop autonomous models equipped with artificial intelligence.
The government plans to deploy the unmanned submarines with manned destroyers and submarines as well as unmanned surface vessels equipped with missile launchers.
The Defece Ministry has allocated 100.1 billion yen (US$619 million) in the budget for fiscal 2026 to establish “Synchronised, Hybrid, Integrated and Enhanced Littoral Defence,” or SHIELD, to repel enemy attacks on far-flung islands, using large numbers of unmanned vessels.
The ministry plans to acquire small unmanned aerial drones for attack purposes as well as unmanned underwater vessels for intelligence gathering, in addition to the attack submarines.
The government will also consider establishing an air defence identification zone, or ADIZ, over the Ogasawara Islands in the Pacific, while planning to deploy surveillance and control radars to those islands in addition to Kitadaito Island on the Pacific side of Okinawa Prefecture.
There is also a proposal to reinforce the runway on Iwoto Island in the Ogasawara Islands, located around 1,250 kilometres south of Tokyo to allow more fighter jets to be deployed there.
While the aim is to address the gaps in Japan’s defence posture and deter China, there is a possibility such efforts could further escalate tensions between Tokyo and Beijing.
Bilaterial ties have deteriorated since Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaishi made remarks suggesting Japan’s potential involvement in a Taiwan contingency, angering China. China claimed the self-ruled island as part of its territory and aims to bring it under its control, by force if necessary.
The Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea, an uninhabited islet group controlled by Japan but claimed by China, have also been a source of tension between the East Asian neighbors.
In proposals compiled by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party for the government ahead of the revision of the three documents, the party, in apparent reference to China, noted that, “in the event of a protracted conflict, attacks against Japan could be launched from the Pacific side.”
The proposals called for the integrated development of the Self-Defence Forces’ response capabilities, command and control, and operational infrastructure.
According to defence experts, the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force needs to maintain a state of vigilance along the Sea of Japan and around the Nansei Islands, where China and Russia are increasingly active, but it faces challenges due to personnel shortages. The Nansei Islands form the border between the East China Sea and the Pacific’s Philippine Sea.
A senior Defence Ministry official said, “For a country surrounded by ocean on all sides, labor-saving and unmanned operations are essential for Japan’s ‘new way of fighting.” …. PACNEWS
NZ – HEALTH: PMN PACNEWS 2: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Pacific health leaders say evidence is clear, action is lagging
AUCKLAND, 29 JUNE 2026 (PMN)—Pacific health leaders say longstanding inequities persist, despite growing evidence of what works.
That was a key message at this week’s annual Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa Symposium in Auckland, where Pacific researchers, clinicians and community leaders gathered to discuss improving health outcomes across Aotearoa and the Pacific.
This year’s theme, Insights to Action, focused on turning research into practical solutions.
Sir Dr Collin Tukuitonga, Associate Dean Pacific at the University of Auckland, says the biggest barriers to improving Pacific health outcomes are political commitment and funding.
Speaking on Pacific Mornings, Tukuitonga says research remains essential.
“Sometimes you have the political will, but there isn’t the money. Sometimes you have the resources, but political leaders aren’t committed,” he says.
“You can’t really make progress without the knowledge, that’s why appropriate research and applied research are really critical.”
In her plenary speech, Dr Corina Grey, Director of Public Health, says New Zealand’s health workforce is not keeping pace with the rapidly growing Pacific population.
According to the 2023 Census, Pacific peoples make up 8.9 percent of New Zealand’s population and are one of the country’s youngest groups, with a median age of 25, compared with 42 for Europeans.
“That means a growing proportion of our future workforce will be Māori and Pacific,” Grey says.
“At the same time, that workforce will be supporting an increasing number of older New Zealanders.”
Despite that growth, Grey says Pacific representation across the health workforce remains low.
Pacific peoples make up about 5 percent of nurses and around 3 percent of doctors, midwives and pharmacists.
Representation is lower still in psychology and dentistry, with only 83 Pacific psychologists and 49 Pacific dentists nationwide.
Grey says Pacific communities continue to face health inequities shaped by poverty, housing and unequal access to care.
Pacific people also continue to have shorter life expectancy than the wider population. Between 2022 and 2024, life expectancy at birth for Pacific peoples was 76.9 years, compared with 81.8 years nationally.
“These differences are not inevitable.”
The inequities begin in childhood.
The 2026 State of Child Health report by Cure Kids found Pacific children were 43 times more likely than non-Māori, non-Pacific children to be hospitalised for acute rheumatic fever or rheumatic heart disease, conditions linked to overcrowded housing and deprivation.
Children in the most deprived communities accounted for 58 percent of those hospitalisations in 2024.
The report found hospitalisations could be reduced by more than 85 percent if inequities linked to ethnicity and deprivation were eliminated.
Other symposium discussions highlighted progress in eliminating cervical cancer in the Pacific, with HPV self-testing helping reduce barriers to screening and improve early detection.
For Pacific health leaders, the message is clear: the evidence already exists, but closing the equity gap will depend on whether decision-makers are willing to act….-PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
TAIWAN – TAX AGREEMENT: PACNEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Sat 27 Jun 2026
Taiwan-Tuvalu Tax Agreement takes effect in 2027
TAIPEI, 26 JUNE 2026 (PACNEWS)—The income tax agreement between Taiwan and Tuvalu has entered into force and will take effect from 01 January 2027 after both sides completed their domestic legal requirements.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Finance said the “Agreement between the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the Government of Tuvalu for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with Respect to Taxes on Income”, signed in Tuvalu on 04 March 2026, entered into force on 11 June 2026.
The ministry said the agreement will become effective from 01 January 2027, making it Taiwan’s 36th comprehensive income tax agreement.
It said that, for taxes withheld at source, the agreement will apply to income payable on or after 01 January 2027, while for other taxes it will apply to income for taxable periods beginning on or after that date.
The Ministry of Finance said the Taiwan-Tuvalu Income Tax Agreement contains 29 articles providing tax reductions or exemptions and tax administration cooperation mechanisms.
These include a reduced withholding tax rate of 10 percent on dividends, interest and royalties, as well as tax exemptions for business profits or income from independent personal services that meet specified conditions.
The agreement also provides that interest sourced in one contracting party and derived by the government of the other contracting party, or agencies owned or controlled by that government, will be exempt from tax in the first-mentioned jurisdiction.
The ministry said the agreement includes a Mutual Agreement Procedure allowing residents of either side to seek consultation between the competent authorities if they believe disputes over the application of the agreement have arisen or may arise.
It said the mechanism is expected to enhance tax certainty and support bilateral industrial and technological exchanges and cooperation.
The Ministry of Finance said it will continue, based on the principles of reciprocity, to pursue income tax agreements with countries sharing common goals “in order to provide more comprehensive tax benefits and protection for Taiwanese enterprises in their global investment.”
Under the agreement, enterprises from either Taiwan or Tuvalu that conduct business in the other jurisdiction without establishing a permanent establishment will be exempt from taxation on business profits in that jurisdiction.
The agreement also caps withholding tax on dividends, interest and royalties at 10 percent, while certain categories of interest will be exempt from taxation.
It further provides that gains from the sale of shares will generally be taxable only in the seller’s jurisdiction of residence, except where more than 50 percent of the value of the shares is derived directly or indirectly from immovable property located in the other contracting party……PACNEWS
FIJI – FISHERIES: PACNEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Mon 29 Jun 2026
Fiji sets up $5 million Tuna Development Fund in $28.4 million Fisheries budget
SUVA, 29 JUNE 2029 (PACNEWS)—The Fiji Government has established a new $5 million (US$2.5 million) Tuna Development Fund as part of a $28.4 million (US$14.2 million) allocation for the Ministry of Fisheries in the 2026–2027 Budget.
In his budget address last Friday, Finance Minister Immanuel Esrom said the new fund is aimed at supporting Fiji’s tuna industry during periods of high operating costs and market uncertainty.
“A new allocation of $5 million (US$2.5 million) has been provided for the Tuna Development Fund. This initiative will support Fiji’s tuna industry during periods of high operating costs and market uncertainty, helping to maintain fishing operations, protect employment and sustain export earnings.”
The Minister said the Ministry of Fisheries has been allocated a total of $28.4 million (US$14.2 million) for the 2026–2027 financial year to support a range of fisheries development projects.
“For 2026–2027, the Ministry of Fisheries has been allocated a total budget of $28.4 million (US$14.2 million) to support aquaculture development, seaweed farming, pearl oyster development, offshore fisheries management, construction of ice machines in Vanuabalavu & Levuka, construction of fisheries stations in Cawaro, Koro & Matakunea and preparatory works for Natovi Fisheries Station,” Esrom said……PACNEWS
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Pacific voices shape regional solid waste management dialogue in Japan
FUKUOKA, 29JUNE 2026 (SPPREP)—Regional dialogue on sustainable solid waste management and circular economy has been strengthened by Pacific participation in a regional workshop in Japan, highlighting the practical realities, constraints, and opportunities facing Pacific Island countries and territories.
The Workshop on Designing Sustainable Solid Waste Management Projects for Circularity was held from 9-12 June 2026 in Kitakyushu Fukuoka, Japan. It was organised by the Asian Development Bank Institute (ADBI) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in collaboration with JICA Kyushu Centre, with support from the Urban Resilience Trust Fund funded by the Government of the United Kingdom.
Maesac Suia, Provincial Secretary, Guadalcanal Provincial Government, Solomon Islands, was amongst the Pacific representation.
“The workshop reinforced the importance of practical, locally appropriate waste management solutions,” he said. “Learning from Japan’s experience and exchanging knowledge with other countries provided valuable insights that can help strengthen waste management efforts in Solomon Islands.”
Fuimaono Katenia Rasch, ACEO Waste Management, Samoa’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) said she learnt many valuable lessons on integrated waste management.
“Different waste management initiatives were explored during the workshop including aerobic and anaerobic treatment technologies in the context of each country’s unique circumstances,” she said.
“For Samoa, continued support from ADB will be important in assessing sustainable treatment and disposal options beyond the Fukuoka Method.”
Suia and Rasch attended the programme together with Susana Telakau, Solid Waste Management Adviser, SPREP.
They joined technical representatives from Bangladesh, Cambodia, Georgia, Japan, Lao PDR, and Uzbekistan in plenary sessions, technical presentations, peer-learning exchanges, and field visits examining policy design, project preparation, financing, citizen engagement, waste separation, recycling, resource recovery, and practical lessons from Japanese facilities.
“The workshop provided valuable insight into how policy, planning, financing, education, and day-to-day operations work together in a functioning waste management system, while also giving Pacific participants space to highlight what is realistic and necessary in island contexts,” said Telakau.
SPREP Solid Waste Management Adviser brought Pacific perspectives into the workshop discussions. Together with participation from Samoa and Solomon Islands, the Pacific presence helped draw attention to the realities facing island countries and territories, including limited land availability, high transport costs, weak cost recovery, narrow recycling markets, and the need for phased, service-oriented waste management solutions.
A major lesson from the workshop was Japan’s long-term evolution in waste management. Presentations showed how the country responded over time to public health concerns, pollution, illegal dumping, and landfill pressure before progressively strengthening regulation, municipal responsibilities, recycling systems, and broader circular economy policies. This staged approach underscored that strong waste systems are built over time, rather than achieved through one-off infrastructure investments.
Participants also observed how public awareness and education have supported Japan’s success. The workshop highlighted that cleanliness, waste separation, and environmental responsibility are taught from a young age and reinforced through school activities, public information, and facility visits. For Pacific island countries, this reinforced the importance of treating behaviour change and community awareness as core elements of waste sector investment.
Field visits to the Hiagari Waste-to-Energy Plant, Kitakyushu Eco-Town, the Fukuoka semi-aerobic landfill, and a food waste recycling facility provided practical examples of how policy and public participation translate into operational systems. Discussions during these visits also emphasised that technology choices must align with local waste volumes, geography, institutional capacity, and most importantly economies of scale.
“For the Pacific, the most important message is that solutions must match local realities. Strong systems depend not only on technology, but also on education, clear responsibilities, reliable financing, and gradual improvement over time,” Telakau said.
SPREP will continue to engage with regional and international partners to promote practical and evidence-based approaches that improve waste services, advance circular economy objectives, and respond to the specific needs of Pacific island countries and territories….PACNEWS
