Tourism Tax Backlash: Fiji’s new 5% Tourism Services Tax for large operators kicks in 1 September, with Australian and New Zealand travel bodies warning it could hit travellers who already booked and paid—ATIA calls the retrospective billing a “broken promise,” while TAANZ urges urgent talks over short lead times and extra costs. Aviation Fuel Crunch: Nadi Airport is managing a jet fuel shortage after a delivery can’t be used yet; Fiji Airways says safety testing and clearance are under way, and airlines report cancellations or workarounds, including tankering and aircraft changes. Energy Security Push: Fiji and Tonga are exploring alternative fuel supply partnerships, while Government moves toward strategic fuel reserves via technical talks with Malaysia’s Petronas and Korea’s NOC. Plastics Transition: Fiji outlines five pathways to cut avoidable plastics and build a circular economy, aiming for reuse, better collection systems, and village and business job opportunities. Workforce Pipeline: Pacific aviation needs about 90,000 new professionals over 20 years, with Fiji positioned to train for roles beyond pilots. Church Discipline: Methodist leaders warn ministers to curb yaqona over-consumption and stop smoking, saying it’s weakening pastoral work. Innovation Awards: Investment Fiji backs the Excellence in Innovation Award for businesses driving practical, sustainable change. Waste Warning: Editorial calls for tougher litter enforcement, arguing fines must apply fairly to everyone. Marine Areas Law: Parliament passes the Commercial Use of Marine Areas Bill 2025, giving iTaukei customary owners a pathway to control and benefit from qualifying commercial marine areas.