Cocoa Downstream Push: Prime Minister James Marape inaugurated Paradise Foods’ upgraded Queen Emma Chocolate factory in Port Moresby, boosting capacity from 10 to 200 tonnes a month (K18.6m total, with EU-STREIT PNG/FAO support) to help farmers capture more value locally. Gas National Content: The Pasca A Gas Project cleared its National Content Plan, with Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina approving training, jobs and procurement targets for Papua New Guineans and PNG-owned suppliers. Cocoa Processing Expansion: Paradise says the upgrade will double output and improve consistent, higher-grade production for specialty buyers, strengthening links between cocoa groups and the processor. Mining Update: Great Pacific Gold expanded gold mineralisation at its Wild Dog Project after new mapping and channel sampling widened the Elamaraka and Kargalio vein systems. Oil Palm Savings Drive: Nasfund, MiBank and NBPOL began rolling out mobile superannuation onboarding for oil palm growers and smallholders, using Starlink connectivity to reach rural sites. Governance Watch: Marape ordered NGCB to verify allegations about payments and unauthorised use of his name, warning any improper conduct will be referred to police. Coastline Waste Concern: Motu-Koitabu coastal communities called for stronger government action as rubbish and plastic pollution build up along beaches and mangroves, affecting health and livelihoods. Regional Security & Digital Rules: Pacific foreign ministers backed AI and safer digital-space principles as connectivity expands, while unity is tested over how to respond to China’s missile test. Transport Disruption: Air Niugini adjusted services as runway rehabilitation limits operations at Mt Hagen and Hoskins, with Dash 8 restrictions expected to ease by September/October.