Author: TMC Palau
The Pacific Business Brief tracks the capital, trade and trends shaping the regional economy. Photo: RNZ Pacific The Northern Marianas get a new digital token, and James Marape tries to woo Chinese giants for infrastructure investment. Here are the weekly highlights in the Pacific economy. In this edition: Northern Marianas’ cryptocurrency plans for disaster recovery Papua New Guinea PM’s diplomatic mission to China The crypto storm A former secretary of finance in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) has become the US territory’s chief proponent of cryptocurrency. In the wake of Severe Typhoon Sinlaku, David Atalig says he…
Overview: Indonesia is calling for the release of a seized fishing vessel and crew, arguing they were operating in disputed waters claimed by both nations. But while no diplomatic resolution has been announced, Palau’s courts have already ordered the sale of 40 tons of fish from the vessel — deepening tensions in a growing maritime dispute. Palau proceeds with fish sale as Indonesia argues vessel was seized in overlapping maritime zone By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau – (May 7, 2026) A diplomatic dispute between Palau and Indonesia over the seizure of an Indonesian fishing vessel has intensified, with no official…
[Source: BBC] Sir David Attenborough has said he has been “completely overwhelmed” by the messages he has received ahead of his 100th birthday. The veteran broadcaster and environmentalist celebrates the milestone on Friday, with a special concert planned in the evening at the Royal Albert Hall in London. In an audio message released on Thursday, Sir David said: “I had rather thought that I would celebrate my 100th birthday quietly, but it seems that many of you have had other ideas. “I have been completely overwhelmed by birthday greetings, from pre-school groups to care home residents, and countless individuals and…
In an exciting development, Ripple’s stablecoin project with the Republic of Palau has entered a Phase One pilot. The partnership between the Republic of Palau and Ripple marks a significant milestone in the realm of stablecoins. The collaboration has resulted in the launch of the Palau Stablecoin (PSC), backed by the U.S. Dollar, issued on the secure and environmentally friendly XRP Ledger (XRPL).The Palau Stablecoin pilot program involves government employees who have volunteered to use PSC with select local merchants in Palau. Local merchants Surrangel and Sons, The Penthouse Hotel and King’s Minute Mart are accepting the Palau Stablecoin for…
Overview: Women’s growing role in maritime and transport industries across the Pacific took the spotlight in Port Moresby during a regional business panel this week. The discussion highlighted progress and ongoing challenges as countries, including Palau and other island nations, push for greater inclusion in sectors central to trade, connectivity, and economic development. Pacific Voices Highlight Women’s Role in Maritime and Transport The role of women in industries traditionally dominated by men took center stage during this morning’s women in business panel discussion in Port Moresby, where regional representatives gathered to discuss women in maritime and transport across the Pacific.…
[Source: Film Fiji – Diandra Ceqa] The highly anticipated 15th Annual Kula Awards is set to make a celebrated return after a seven-year break. The awards will be in three categories the Film, Art & Dance competition. The last Kula Awards was held seven years ago, making this year’s event a significant milestone for participating schools and students alike. The return of the awards marks a renewed commitment to recognizing excellence and encouraging youth participation in the creative arts aspect of education. Article continues after advertisement This year, over twenty-five schools will participate in the event, with students traveling from…
The microstate of Palau faces several obstacles on the path to housing security and affordability. Still, there have been successful efforts towards this goal and in preventing homelessness in Palau. Challenges to Palau Palau faces numerous challenges to its socioeconomic stability. The COVID-19 pandemic presented setbacks to the country’s economy, one that centers largely on tourism. According to the Palau government’s Development Plan for 2023-2026, rising costs of construction materials and an unequal growth between incomes and housing prices make it harder to afford a home in Palau, especially amidst high demand. Additionally, land disputes resulting in displacement complicate matters…
Overview: Palau has enacted one of its toughest anti-drug laws yet, expanding felony charges for drug-related offenses and increasing accountability for law enforcement officers. The new law also opens the door for more rehabilitation support as the country confronts growing concerns over illegal drugs. New law targets drug abuse, strengthens accountability and funds rehabilitation efforts By: L.N. Reklai KOROR, Palau – (May 7, 2026) President Surangel Whipps Jr. has signed into law a sweeping anti-drug measure that strengthens penalties for illegal drug offenses and creates tougher accountability standards for law enforcement officers involved with drugs. The legislation, RPPL 12-5, expands…
[Source: Reuters] The United States and Iran exchanged fire on Thursday in the most serious test yet of their month-long ceasefire, but Iran said the situation returned to normal while the U.S. said it did not want to escalate. The renewed hostilities broke out as Washington was awaiting Iran’s response to a U.S. proposal that would stop the fighting but leave the most contentious issues, such as Iran’s nuclear program, unresolved for now. Iran’s military said the U.S. targeted two ships entering the Strait of Hormuz and carried out strikes on Iranian territory. The U.S. military said it fired in…
Moana Pasifika’s Abraham Pole celebrates his 50th game, 2026. Photo: Brett Phibbs / www.photosport.nz Moana Pasifika v Hurricanes Kick-off: 7:05pm Saturday 9 May North Harbour Stadium, Auckland Live blog updates on RNZ Veteran Moana Pasifika halfback Augustine Pulu says the players are resilient as they focus on meeting Super Rugby Pacific table toppers Hurricanes at home in North Harbour on Saturday. Pulu, who has played for both the All Blacks and Tonga’s ‘Ikale Tahi and spent Super Rugby seasons with the Chiefs and the Blues, told reporters this week Moana Pasifika players continue to turn up every day, despite the…