Deep-Sea Mining: A Fisheries and Oceans Canada deepwater ecology chief warns deep-sea mining would inflict irreversible harm on slow-growing, long-lived ocean life, calling it a “sucker punch” for decision-makers. Deep-Sea Minerals Policy: A Pacific-wide debate is shifting from simple “for or against” to “follow the science, protect the environment,” with Tonga reaffirming a “do no harm” approach as UN deep-sea mining rules remain under scrutiny. Tonga Elections: Tonga’s Supervisor of Elections says writs for two by-elections (Tongatapu Two and Niua 17) are expected by the end of the week after MPs were removed for bribery. Rural Livelihoods: Tonga and IFAD launch TRIP III, a US$19.4m rural innovation push to boost agricultural diversification and commercialization for 8,800 households. Fuel Costs: Tonga fuel prices are set to drop from 3 August, with petrol, kerosene and diesel reductions announced by the commerce ministry. Seasonal Work: New Zealand’s RSE scheme continues helping Tongans build businesses at home, with one worker using earnings to run a barbershop, cassava plantation and piggery. Pacific Trade & Food Exports: Pacific Trade Invest Australia will bring Tonga and other Pacific food producers to Fine Food Australia 2026 to connect with buyers. Regional Security Drills: 16 Indo-Pacific maritime forces begin SEACAT 2026 in Singapore, focusing on cooperation for maritime crises and illicit activity response. Fiji Industry Leadership: Manoa Kamikamica returns to Fiji’s Cabinet as deputy PM and industries/commercial minister after being cleared of charges. Sports & Culture: A Tongan-NZ director’s film “God Bless You, Mr Kopu” heads to TIFF, while Tonga’s Warriors wāhine welcome Mele Hufanga in a debut match.