Climate Resilience for Taro: A University of the South Pacific researcher is upgrading taro farming tools to help Pacific farmers lift yields and protect soil health as climate stress rises, using improved APSIM modelling tailored to local taro varieties across Fiji, Samoa and Tonga. Drought Preparedness in the Niuas: Tonga received a second TOP$114,168 parametric insurance payout from PCRIC to speed up early drought planning after below-average May rainfall, with officials also discussing expanding insurance to cover critical infrastructure like energy and communications. Food Security Planning for El Niño: Tonga’s agriculture authorities are urging farmers to plan for dry months, warning Ha’apai’s sandy soils are especially vulnerable and that crops including yam, cassava, taro and watermelon could face delayed planting, lower yields and higher pest pressure. Local Business Push: Tonga Trade Fair 2026 opened in Nuku’alofa under “Buy Tonga Made,” bringing together 60+ local enterprises from agriculture and food production to crafts and services, aiming to boost small business growth and consumer support. Pacific Security Moves: Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese signed major new security arrangements with Fiji, while China’s reported missile test in the Pacific drew regional condemnation—raising the stakes for Pacific-wide security cooperation. Fuel Measurement and Fair Trade: Australia’s National Measurement Institute donated fuel measurement trolleys to Tonga and other Pacific nations via the Pacific Islands Forum to help regulators verify pump accuracy and protect consumers and government revenue.