Pacific Debt & Sovereignty: A World Bank-linked update warns Pacific governments face renewed debt pressure from slower growth, climate disasters, high fuel costs and shrinking grants, with PANG saying the problem is also historical and structural. Sugar Reform Under Scrutiny: Fiji’s sugar sector needs major reform as subsidies and support aren’t delivering returns, cane tonnage keeps falling, and lawmakers question how the Sugar Cane Growers Fund can lend—especially to cooperatives. Solar-Plus-Storage Push: Energy Fiji is moving ahead with EPC Renewables and Grupo Cobra on the Yaqara 22MW solar + 40MWh battery (then 120MW + 200MWh) to cut diesel reliance. Rabi Island Turns to Solar: High fuel costs are pushing Rabi Island households toward solar as generators outgrow family budgets. Cane Farming Gets Drones: Fiji Sugar Corporation begins training officers to use spray drones for herbicides, fertiliser and drought mitigation, aiming to reach steep and flood-prone fields. Construction Costs Rise: Building material prices climbed 1.5% in the September quarter, led by paint/glass, electrical products and plumbing ware. Climate & COP31 Pressure: Pacific leaders reaffirm 1.5°C and demand climate finance and urgent action ahead of COP31, while youth adopt a unified 1.5°C survival statement. West Papua UN Visit: Pacific leaders press Indonesia to allow a long-awaited UN human rights visit to West Papua, with MSG warning membership could be reviewed. Border & Tax Enforcement: Fiji’s FRCS warns that proposed Australia border-security cooperation must protect sovereignty and sensitive revenue systems. Energy Security Planning: Fiji steps up dry-season preparations for El Niño and stresses water, roads and energy resilience. Sports & Talent: Fijian Drua names a preseason starting 15 vs the Melbourne Rebels, while Fiji’s rugby league eyes new Pacific 9s and 13-a-side tournaments.