Fintech & Payments: BSP launches BSP eDollar, Fiji’s first bank-backed electronic wallet, bringing QR payments and mobile wallet transfers into the BSP network. Climate & Water Security: El Niño is tightening water and food supplies across Fiji and Papua New Guinea, with Fiji warning of possible “drastic measures” as WAF activates dry-weather plans. Transport Costs: Taxi fares in Fiji revert to base rates from October 1 after the interim fuel-linked increase ends September 30; bus fares follow a similar reset, with Viti Levu/Vanua Levu returning to base rates and Taveuni revised from September 1. Energy Skills: International Solar Alliance will set up a Solar Technology Application Resource Centre at Don Bosco Technological Institute in Port Moresby to train solar installers and operators. Drug Enforcement: Fiji moves to establish a professional Counter Narcotics Bureau to tackle drug policy, intelligence and enforcement, citing major meth seizures. Sugar Industry: Government explores mechanical harvesting for hilly cane areas, testing suitable machines to ease labour shortages. Digital Capacity: Fiji’s National Conference on Information Technology returns with record sponsorship under “Vanua to Virtual,” pushing local digital capability. Education Pressure: Reserve Bank of Fiji data shows households squeezed by costs, while FNU warns financial hardship is forcing thousands out of university. Governance & Compliance: Fiji’s High Court hears submissions in the Bainimarama/Sayed-Khaiyum abuse-of-office case tied to biomedical analyser procurement. Sports & Talent: Flying Fijians halfback Sam Wye signs with Swire Shipping Fijian Drua for the 2027 season.