This report is condensed from an interview with Nada Choueiri, Deputy Director of the IMF’s Asia and Pacific Department, Washington DC by PACNEWS Senior Journalist Pita...
Blog
CBA to replace Bendigo Bank in Nauru
Nauru is preparing to transition its government banking services from the Bendigo Bank Agency to a new service provider—the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA)—with...
Uncertainty grows around Vanuatu’s Airbus payment
Concerns are mounting over the fate of a VT2 billion (US$16.5 million) deposit made by the Vanuatu Government in 2019 for Airbus aircraft that have yet to be delivered....
Tuvalu embraces digital banking with ATMs
In April 2025, Tuvalu marked a significant milestone in its financial history by unveiling its first-ever Automated Teller Machines (ATMs). This development signifies a...
Palau battles crime, corruption and geopolitics
Palau, an island nation of approximately 17,000 residents, has emerged as a focal point in the geopolitical contest between the United States and China. The U.S....
Australia, Vanuatu strengthen economic ties at 7AVBF
The 7th Australia Vanuatu Business Forum, held from 12–13 March 2025 at the Warwick Le Lagon Hotel, marked a significant advancement in bilateral economic relations....
UK’s Pacific Business Club launches in Australia
The Australian arm of the UK Government's Pacific Business Club was launched last month – a timely and strategic initiative designed to support the development of...
East Micronesia cable project reaches key milestone
The East Micronesia Cable (EMC) project has reached a major implementation milestone, with the first of four cable landing stations installed in Pohnpei, Federated...
Urgent water security measures for island nations urged
Pacific Island nations such as Kiribati are being urged to adopt immediate and robust water security strategies as rising sea levels place increasing stress on fragile...
Cook Islands-China seabed mining deal prompts concerns
The Cook Islands’ recent partnership with China for the exploration of seabed minerals has sparked debate both at home and abroad, as environmental groups and regional...
Join industry leaders at the 7AVBF in Port Vila 12-13 March
Join the 7th Australia Vanuatu Business Forum #7AVBF is scheduled for March 12-13, 2025, at the Warwick Le Lagon Hotel in Port Vila, Vanuatu. Organised by the Australia...
World Bank commits $110M for Kiritimati Island’s infrastructure
The World Bank has approved a USD 110 million (AUD 175 million) grant for Kiritimati (Christmas) Island in Kiribati. This six-year initiative aims to enhance...