AGP Executive Report

Submarine volcanism: Scientists using AI to scan the seafloor say they’ve found 73 previously unknown volcanic calderas under the ocean, a reminder that underwater geology can reshape habitats and hazards far from shore. Drought resilience in Tonga: Tonga received a $114,168 parametric climate insurance payout from PCRIC to help early drought preparedness in the Niuas after below-average May rainfall, with officials also discussing expanding coverage to critical infrastructure like energy and communications. Climate-smart food systems: A USP researcher is developing farming approaches to protect Pacific taro as climate change, saltwater intrusion, dry spells, flooding, and soil decline threaten yields, including work to improve taro trials across Fiji, Samoa and Tonga. Pacific plastics push: Fiji helped lead negotiations on a future legally binding plastics treaty, focusing on finance and implementation support for small island states. Regional fisheries governance: Ministers wrapped up the 25th Forum Fisheries Committee meeting in Wellington, setting priorities for cooperation on the future of Pacific fisheries. Pacific youth climate voice: Young people in Vanuatu called for children to be placed at the centre of climate decision-making, pushing for real power and resources to lead solutions.

Tonga Drought Response: Tonga received a TOP$114,168 parametric insurance payout from PCRIC to help early drought preparedness in the Niuas after below-average May rainfall, with officials discussing possible expansion of insurance to critical infrastructure like energy and communications. Climate-Smart Food Systems: A USP researcher is developing climate-smart taro farming solutions across Fiji, Samoa and Tonga, warning that rising temperatures, dry spells, flooding, saltwater intrusion and soil decline are cutting yields and increasing pests. Pacific Plastics Diplomacy: Fiji helped lead negotiations on a legally binding global plastics treaty, co-facilitating the finance and implementation discussions that will shape how countries get support to deliver commitments, especially small island states. Regional Security vs Environment: Australia and Fiji signed the Ocean of Peace defence alliance and the Vuvale Union, while China reported a missile test in the South Pacific—raising new pressure on Pacific governments to balance security cooperation with climate and development priorities. Pacific Fisheries Governance: Ministers wrapped up the 25th Forum Fisheries Committee meeting in Wellington, setting priorities for regional fisheries cooperation and leadership for 2026–2027.

Plastics treaty push: Fiji helped lead Pacific voices at global plastics negotiations in Nairobi, co-facilitating talks on how a future legally binding instrument will be funded and implemented—key for small island states needing predictable support. Drought resilience for Tonga: Tonga received a TOP$114,168 parametric climate insurance payout from PCRIC to boost early drought preparedness in the Niuas after below-average May rainfall, with officials also discussing expanding insurance to critical infrastructure. Fisheries governance: Ministers wrapped up the 25th Forum Fisheries Committee Ministerial Meeting in Wellington, setting priorities for regional cooperation on the future of Pacific fisheries and backing new chair leadership. Eye health evidence-building: The Fred Hollows Foundation says avoidable blindness in the Pacific is still undercounted, and is working to strengthen Pacific-led research so governments can target services and funding. Tourism data skills: Tonga joined a SPTO workshop in Nadi to improve tourism statistics and analysis, strengthening evidence-based planning across Pacific countries. Disaster readiness training: SPC and WFP trained Pacific disaster logistics officers in Brisbane to move relief supplies faster during emergencies, including Tonga participation. Fuel price relief: Diesel maximum prices are falling in Tonga, Fiji and Samoa, easing pressure on households as global oil conditions improve.

Drought response for Niuas: Tonga received a TOP$114,168 parametric insurance payout from PCRIC after below-average May rainfall, aimed at speeding early drought preparedness and relief, with officials also discussing expanding such coverage to critical infrastructure like energy and communications. Fuel affordability and resilience: Diesel price caps are easing across the Pacific, including Tonga, where maximum fuel prices have been lowered for the first time since the Middle East war began—helping households and services cope with volatile energy costs. Pacific climate governance: Tonga’s PM Lord Fakafanua urged bigger investment in climate adaptation, calling climate change the Pacific’s top security challenge and stressing that adaptation is harder but essential for resilient infrastructure and safer communities. Regional fisheries focus: Pacific fisheries ministers wrapped up the 25th Forum Fisheries Committee Ministerial Meeting in Wellington, with Tonga among participating members as they set priorities for cooperation and the future of Pacific fisheries. Local capacity for disaster logistics: SPC and WFP trained disaster management warehouse officers from Tonga and other Pacific nations in faster, better-managed relief supply handling—supporting community-led readiness when disasters hit.

Drought Response: Tonga received a TOP$114,168 parametric insurance payout from PCRIC to trigger early drought preparedness in the Niuas after below-average May rainfall, with officials discussing faster deployment and possible expansion of parametric coverage for critical infrastructure like energy and communications. Regional Fisheries: The 25th Forum Fisheries Committee ministerial meeting wrapped in Wellington, with ministers backing the next chair and setting priorities for Pacific fisheries cooperation. Pacific Governance: PIF Troika leaders met in Suva ahead of the Palau leaders’ summit, focusing on implementing the Suva Agreement, regional architecture reforms, and preparations for COP31 climate engagement. Climate Voices: Pacific youth at Vanuatu’s Pacific Innovation Forum on Climate and Environment urged governments to put children at the centre of climate decisions, calling for real power and resources. Fuel Prices & Environment: Fuel caps eased across the region, including Tonga’s first reduction since the Middle East war began, offering some relief while markets remain volatile. Waste & Trade Tools: Australia donated fuel measurement equipment to Tonga and other Pacific states to help regulators verify pump accuracy, supporting fairer trade and economic resilience.

Drought Response: Tonga received a TOP$114,168 parametric insurance payout from PCRIC to help the Niuas prepare for drought after below-average May rainfall, with officials also discussing expanding insurance to cover critical infrastructure like energy and communications. Regional Fisheries: Forum Fisheries Committee ministers wrapped up a week in Wellington, adopting priorities for the future of Pacific fisheries cooperation and leadership for 2026–27. Pacific Governance: PIF Troika leaders met in Suva to push Suva Agreement reforms and prepare a united Pacific voice ahead of COP31. Child-Centred Climate Action: Youth from across the Pacific urged governments in Vanuatu to give children real power in climate decisions, linking calls to community resilience programmes. Fuel Costs & Resilience: Diesel price caps eased across Fiji, Samoa and Tonga, while Australia backed fuel measurement capability for Pacific regulators. Plastic Pollution: Pacific negotiators reiterated the push for a global legally binding plastic pollution treaty, with talks set for Nairobi next week. Climate Adaptation Funding: Tonga’s PM Fakafanua called for more investment in adaptation as the region’s top security challenge.

Climate Resilience Funding: Tonga received a TOP$114,168 parametric insurance payout from PCRIC to support early drought preparedness in the Niuas after below-average May rainfall, with officials also discussing expanding insurance to critical infrastructure like energy and communications. Regional Fisheries Governance: Pacific fisheries ministers wrapped up the 25th Forum Fisheries Committee ministerial meeting in Wellington, adopting priorities for cooperation across tuna and other oceanic fisheries. Pacific Unity & Climate Diplomacy: PIF Troika leaders met in Suva ahead of the 55th Leaders Meeting in Palau, stressing reforms to regional governance and a united Pacific voice on climate action ahead of COP31. Youth-Led Climate Demands: Pacific youth at Vanuatu’s PIFCE forum called for child-centred climate decision-making, saying young people need real power and resources to lead solutions. Ocean & Wildlife Protection: A Tonga-linked CITES reminder highlighted ongoing coral and clam seizures tied to illegal wildlife trade, underscoring the need for permits and stronger enforcement. Waste & Pollution Treaty Push: SPREP flagged continued Pacific engagement in global plastic pollution talks toward a legally binding ocean-focused treaty. Disaster Readiness Skills: SPC and WFP trained Tonga and other Pacific disaster management logistics teams in humanitarian warehousing to move relief supplies faster when disasters hit.

Pacific Fisheries Governance: Forum Fisheries Committee ministers wrapped up a week in Wellington, adopting a communiqué and backing leadership transitions as Tonga and other members push for stronger regional cooperation on tuna and oceanic fisheries. Regional Governance & Climate Prep: PIF Troika leaders met in Suva to drive reforms under the Suva Agreement and prepare a united Pacific voice ahead of COP31, with climate action front and centre. Tonga Climate Adaptation Funding: Tonga PM Lord Fakafanua told Net Zero Investor that climate adaptation is the Pacific’s top security challenge, calling for investment to build resilient infrastructure and protect communities. Youth-Led Climate Demands: Pacific youth at Vanuatu’s climate forum urged governments to put children at the centre of decision-making, arguing they need real power and resources to lead solutions. Fuel Prices & Consumer Relief: Diesel caps are falling across Fiji, Tonga and Samoa as global oil pressure eases, with regulators urging caution as markets remain vulnerable to geopolitics. Tonga Transport Emissions Policy: Tonga delayed a ban on importing vehicles older than 10 years until 30 June 2027, citing time needed for environmental, waste, transport and enforcement readiness. Plastic Pollution Treaty Push: SPREP highlighted Pacific priorities for the global plastic pollution negotiations in Nairobi, stressing the urgency for island nations facing ocean impacts. CITES Enforcement: New Zealand’s DOC seized tonnes of protected corals and clams, reminding travellers that permits are required for CITES-listed species. Disaster Readiness Skills: SPC and WFP trained Pacific disaster logistics officers in Brisbane to strengthen warehouse capacity for faster relief during emergencies. Tourism Data Skills: SPTO’s workshop in Nadi boosted Pacific tourism statistics and research capability, including Tonga participation, to improve evidence-based planning.

Pacific Islands Forum leadership: PIF Secretary General Baron Waqa welcomed new Forum Chair Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale in Suva, stressing unity and collective action as the region tackles climate, economic and security pressures. Regional governance: The PIF Troika met in Suva to push ahead on the Suva Agreement, regional architecture reforms and preparations for COP31, with leaders calling for a united Pacific voice on climate action. Climate adaptation push (Tonga): Tonga PM Lord Fatafehi Fakafanua told Net Zero Investor that climate adaptation is the Pacific’s top security challenge, arguing for bigger investment to build resilient infrastructure and prepare communities for changing conditions. El Niño outlook (SPREP): SPREP said El Niño has been declared and outlined what Pacific communities may expect, noting the event can bring both risks and opportunities depending on location. Fuel and resilience support: Australia’s National Measurement Institute donated fuel measurement equipment to Tonga and other Pacific nations via the PIF Secretariat to help verify pump accuracy; meanwhile, SPC and WFP trained Pacific disaster logistics teams in Brisbane to move relief supplies faster. Plastic pollution treaty momentum: SPREP highlighted Pacific engagement in global plastic pollution negotiations ahead of Nairobi, where countries will work toward a legally binding global deal. Tonga environment policy (transport emissions/waste): Tonga delayed a ban on importing vehicles aged 10 years or older until 30 June 2027, citing more time needed for environmental protection, waste management, road transport and enforcement readiness. Biodiversity trade warning: A CITES-related report flagged large seizures of protected corals and clams, underscoring the risk of illegal wildlife trade and the need for permits. Water and health context: A global map review reiterated that safe drinking water remains out of reach for billions, a reminder of the health stakes tied to climate and disaster impacts.

Aid shock for Pacific SIDS: An OECD report warns small island states in Asia and the Pacific could face major economic and health pressure as global Overseas Development Assistance falls to its lowest level since 2014, projecting 33.4% ODA losses (2024–2026) and steep drops in health and disease control funding. Regional governance push: Pacific Islands Forum Troika leaders met in Suva to advance reforms under the Suva Agreement and prepare a united Pacific voice on climate action ahead of COP31 and the 55th Forum Leaders Meeting in Palau. Climate adaptation as security: Tonga PM Lord Fatafehi Fakafanua told Net Zero Investor that climate adaptation investment is the Pacific’s top security challenge, arguing resilience needs funding for infrastructure and community preparedness. El Niño outlook: SPREP and partners say El Niño is declared and will likely bring drier conditions for parts of the western Pacific, while also noting potential opportunities for some communities. Fuel measurement support: Australia’s National Measurement Institute donated fuel measurement equipment (fuel trolleys) to Tonga and other Pacific nations to help regulators verify pump accuracy and protect consumers. Plastic pollution treaty momentum: Pacific leaders and SPREP highlighted ongoing work toward a global legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution, with negotiations set to continue in Nairobi next week. Tonga vehicle import ban delayed: Tonga postponed a ban on importing vehicles aged 10 years or older until 30 June 2027, citing more time needed for environmental, waste, transport and enforcement readiness. Youth climate voices: Save the Children’s NextGen youth ambassadors urged child-centred power in climate decision-making at a regional climate and environment forum in Vanuatu. Corals and clams enforcement: A CITES-related seizure drive reported tonnes of protected corals and shells intercepted, underscoring ongoing pressure on wildlife trade. Deep-sea wildlife discovery: Researchers captured first live footage of rare goblin sharks near the Tonga Trench, expanding knowledge of the species’ range. Fisheries cooperation: South Pacific Group ministers in Wellington reaffirmed shared action for sustainable management of oceanic fisheries resources, including Tonga’s role in regional tuna priorities.

Fuel Prices Watch: Tonga has lowered its maximum fuel prices for July for the first time since the Middle East war began, cutting the Tongatapu diesel cap by 85 seniti to 4.20 pa’anga, after diesel had been raised by more than 64% since February. Climate Adaptation Funding: Tonga PM Lord Fakafanua told Net Zero Investor that climate adaptation is the Pacific’s top security challenge, calling for more investment to build resilient infrastructure, strengthen economies and prepare communities for changing conditions. El Niño Outlook: SPREP-linked partners say El Niño is declared and could bring below-normal rainfall to parts of the western Pacific, while also creating opportunities depending on local conditions. Plastic Pollution Treaty Push: SPREP says Pacific islands are engaging in global plastic pollution negotiations ahead of Nairobi, aiming for a legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution in the marine environment. Disaster Readiness Skills: SPC and WFP trained logistics and warehouse officers from Tonga and other Pacific disaster offices in Brisbane, strengthening how relief supplies are procured, stored and dispatched during emergencies. Vehicle Import Ban Delayed: Tonga postponed a ban on importing vehicles aged 10 years or older until 30 June 2027, citing more time needed for environmental, waste, road transport and customs enforcement. Marine Life & Trade: A CITES reminder highlights large coral and clam seizures tied to protected species, underscoring the risks of illegal wildlife trade. Youth Voices on Climate: Pacific youth leaders at a Vanuatu climate forum urged child-centred solutions and real power for young people in climate decision-making. Tonga Culture Spotlight: Miss Heilala 2026 contestants drew interview topics including climate change, mental health, digital safety and cost of living, ahead of judged interviews. Deep-Sea Discovery: Researchers recorded rare live goblin shark sightings near the Tonga Trench, expanding the known range of the “living fossil” species.

Climate Adaptation Funding: Tonga PM Lord Fatafehi Fakafanua urged bigger investment in climate adaptation, calling it the Pacific’s top security challenge and stressing the need to build resilient infrastructure and prepare communities for changing weather. El Niño Outlook: SPREP-linked experts say El Niño can bring both risks and opportunities, outlining what Pacific communities may expect as the ENSO cycle shifts. Clean Water Access: A new global map highlights where safely managed drinking water is still out of reach, underscoring the infrastructure gap facing many low-income countries. Vehicle Emissions & Waste: Tonga delayed a ban on importing vehicles aged 10 years or older until 30 June 2027, citing extra time needed for environmental protection, waste management, road transport and Customs readiness. Plastic Pollution Treaty Push: Pacific leaders and SPREP flagged ongoing work toward a global, legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution, with negotiations set to continue in Nairobi. Disaster Readiness Skills: SPC and WFP trained logistics and warehouse officers from Tonga and other Pacific states in Brisbane to strengthen rapid relief supply movement during disasters. Protected Species Smuggling: New Zealand’s DOC reported large seizures of protected corals and clams under CITES, warning holiday importers that permits are required. Deep-Sea Wildlife Discovery: Researchers captured first live footage of goblin sharks near the Tonga Trench, expanding the species’ known range in the Central Pacific. Youth Climate Voice: Save the Children NextGen youth ambassadors called for children to be central in climate decision-making at a regional forum in Vanuatu.

Climate Adaptation Funding: Tonga PM Lord Fakafanua told Net Zero Investor that climate adaptation is Pacific’s top security challenge, arguing small island states need investment to build resilient infrastructure, strengthen economies and prepare communities for changing conditions. El Niño Outlook: SPREP says El Niño has been declared and can bring both risks and opportunities, outlining what Pacific communities may expect in coming months. Youth in Climate Decision-Making: Save the Children’s NextGen youth ambassadors urged child-centred power at Vanuatu’s Pacific Innovation Forum on Climate and Environment, calling for real platforms and resources for young people. Vehicle Emissions & Waste: Tonga delayed a ban on importing vehicles aged 10 years or more until 30 June 2027, giving agencies more time to prepare enforcement linked to emissions, waste and road safety. Plastic Pollution Treaty Push: SPREP highlighted Pacific voices in global plastic pollution negotiations ahead of Nairobi talks, noting millions of tonnes of plastic leak into aquatic ecosystems each year. Ocean Life Discovery: Scientists recorded the first live goblin shark sightings near the Tonga Trench, expanding the species’ known range and depth. Disaster Readiness Training: SPC and WFP trained logistics and warehouse officers from Tonga and other Pacific NDMOs in Brisbane to speed relief supply movement during disasters. Regional Fisheries Cooperation: South Pacific Group ministers met in Wellington, reaffirming Tonga’s role in collective management of southern longline tuna and other oceanic fisheries.

Climate adaptation funding: Tonga PM Lord Fatafehi Fakafanua urged bigger investment in climate adaptation, calling it the Pacific’s top security challenge and stressing that resilience needs real money for infrastructure, economies and community preparedness. Disaster readiness logistics: SPC and WFP trained disaster management logistics officers from Tonga and other Pacific states in Brisbane on warehousing, dispatch and first aid, aiming to speed relief delivery when disasters hit. Youth voice in climate talks: Pacific youth at Vanuatu’s Pacific Innovation Forum on Climate and Environment pushed for child-centred decision-making, saying young people need real power and resources to lead solutions. El Niño outlook: SPREP highlighted that El Niño can bring both risks and opportunities across the Pacific, outlining what communities may expect in coming months. Plastic pollution treaty momentum: SPREP-backed coverage points to next week’s global negotiations in Nairobi on a legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution, with the Pacific’s ocean at the centre. Safe water gap: A data map shows billions still lack safely managed drinking water, underlining the infrastructure and access challenge facing many countries. Deep-sea wildlife discovery: Researchers filmed rare goblin sharks alive near the Tonga Trench, expanding known range and depth for the “living fossil.” Fuel crisis response: Pacific leaders at FEMM in the Marshall Islands urged energy-use cuts and a Pacific-led approach as fuel prices stay volatile. Food security warning (regional): El Niño impacts in PNG are driving frost, drought and depleted harvests, with Oxfam warning of widespread hunger risk. Vehicle import policy (Tonga): Tonga delayed a ban on importing vehicles aged 10 years or more until 2027, citing time to strengthen enforcement and environmental and waste management systems.

Climate Adaptation Funding: Tonga PM Lord Fakafanua urged bigger investment in climate adaptation, calling resilience the Pacific’s top security challenge and warning that small island states must fund sea walls, relocation and stronger economies to cope with changing weather. Plastic Pollution Treaty: Pacific ministers and SPREP highlighted the push for a global, legally binding plastic pollution deal ahead of Nairobi talks, noting millions of tonnes of plastic keep leaking into oceans and ecosystems each year. Ocean Life (Deep-Sea Wildlife): New footage and live sightings documented rare goblin sharks in the Central Pacific, including near the Tonga Trench, expanding what scientists know about their range and deep habitat. Water Access Data: A new global map shows where safely managed drinking water is still out of reach, with billions lacking clean water at home—an issue that matters for disaster resilience planning in the Pacific. Pacific Resilience Finance: The Marshall Islands will chair the Pacific Resilience Facility Council, a Pacific-led fund meant to finance community resilience, disaster preparedness and loss-and-damage responses, with Tonga set to host the headquarters. Regional Ocean Governance: South Pacific Group ministers met in Wellington to reaffirm cooperation on sustainable tuna and other oceanic fisheries management, with Tonga included in the coalition’s shared ocean agenda.

Pacific plastic treaty talks: Pacific leaders and negotiators are pushing for stronger action on transboundary plastic pollution ahead of the next global round in Nairobi, citing the scale of leakage into oceans and the push for a legally binding instrument. South Pacific fisheries cooperation: South Pacific Group ministers met in Wellington to reaffirm regional solidarity on sustainable oceanic fisheries, highlighting Tonga’s role alongside Cook Islands, Fiji, Niue and Samoa in tuna management. El Niño pressure on food security: Papua New Guinea is facing severe drought, frost and crop losses from El Niño, with Oxfam warning millions could be affected—an urgent reminder for Pacific climate resilience planning. Tonga water access map: A new global data map shows safe drinking water remains out of reach for billions, underlining the infrastructure gap that Pacific communities also feel. Tonga-linked climate finance governance: The Marshall Islands is set to chair the Pacific Resilience Facility Council, a Pacific-led fund for adaptation, disaster preparedness and loss-and-damage responses, with Tonga named as the PRF headquarters. Deep-sea wildlife discovery: Researchers captured the first live goblin shark footage in the Central Pacific, including near the Tonga Trench—fresh attention on biodiversity in remote ocean habitats. Fuel crisis response: Pacific leaders at FEMM reiterated the need for energy-use cuts and a Pacific response to volatile fuel conditions. Moana Pasifika fallout: New Zealand Rugby rejected rescue bids, ending Moana Pasifika’s Super Rugby Pacific participation in 2027—an indirect hit to Pacific sport pathways and community ties.