Cocoa Downstream Boost: PNG inaugurated the upgraded Queen Emma Chocolate factory in Port Moresby, with Paradise Foods investing K18.6m (EU-STREIT PNG/FAO support plus company funding) to lift capacity from 10 tonnes to 200 tonnes per month and help farmers sell higher-value products locally. Gas National Content: The Pasca A Gas Project cleared its National Content Plan, with Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina approving training, jobs and more procurement opportunities for PNG-owned businesses. Gaming Control Probe: PM James Marape ordered the NGCB to verify public allegations about payments and alleged misuse of his name, warning any improper conduct will be referred to police. Mining Expansion: Great Pacific Gold expanded known gold mineralisation at its Wild Dog Project after new mapping and channel sampling at the Elamaraka and Kargalio vein systems. Oil Palm Savings Push: Nasfund, MiBank and NBPOL began rolling out mobile superannuation onboarding for oil palm growers and smallholders, using Starlink-supported mobile branches. Local Governance & Waste: Motu-Koitabu coastal communities raised alarms over rising rubbish and plastic pollution, linking it to health and livelihood impacts. Regional Security & Tech: Pacific foreign ministers backed AI and safer digital-space principles as connectivity grows, while Pacific unity faces a test over how to respond to China’s missile test. Transport Disruption: Air Niugini adjusted services at Mt Hagen, Hoskins and Kiunga due to runway rehabilitation, keeping Dash 8 operations in place during works.