Energy & Industry: Tonga’s fuel security could get a boost after the US Trade and Development Agency agreed to fund a feasibility study for Tonga’s main fuel supplier, Pacific Energy South West Pacific Ltd—looking at bigger fuel tankers, longer storage (from about 15–20 days toward 60), outer-island distribution, and ways to encourage more private investment. Construction & Governance: The Fangaʻuta Lagoon Bridge project is facing more delays and possible cost blowouts, with the Prime Minister pointing to contract obligations not fully met, project-management weaknesses, and unresolved land issues on both sides of the site. Local Business & Jobs: Pacific Brewing Tonga is set to relaunch in Nuku’alofa tomorrow under female Tongan ownership and management, with a Pacific team and Australian brewing support focused on rebuilding operations, skills transfer, and expanding locally made beverages including planned sparkling kava. Tourism Marketing: Tonga’s refreshed tourism brand, “Kingdom of Tonga: The Friendly Islands,” has been named a finalist in the 2026 Skift IDEA Awards, with reported gains after the October 2025 rebrand. Skills & Heritage: Students at the University of the South Pacific got an update on the new Tonga Parliament complex at Mataki’eua, including an expected early-2028 completion, Lapita pottery and human remains discoveries, and apprenticeship opportunities with Ca’ Bella Pacific Construction Tonga. Economy Watch: Tonga’s annual inflation hit 9.3% in July, driven mainly by transport (+23.3%), housing utilities (+32.2%), and restaurant/hotel prices (+13.7%).