Tourism & MICE: Tourism Fiji CEO Dr Paresh Pant says Fiji is ramping up its business events push, with hotel refurbishments and a focus on long-term growth in Australia and New Zealand. Drug enforcement & public safety: Fiji Police report dozens of “white substance” parcels washed ashore across islands, including cocaine finds, urging people to report and not handle packages; meanwhile, Fiji’s foreign affairs minister warns drug cartels exploit the country’s vast ocean routes. Court case: In the Vatia drug case, accused Ponipate Sevou argues there is no direct evidence linking him to the alleged offences and challenges witness credibility as bail is sought. Sugar sector support: Low Master Award Growers Agreement sign-ups have delayed cane harvesting; government fuel subsidy aims to cut costs, while FSC calls for stricter grant eligibility to target productive farmers. Energy & cost pressure: The Consumer Council questions Energy Fiji Limited’s push for tariff increases despite returning to profit, citing spending on emergency diesel generation. Regional finance: Pacific finance ministers meet in the Marshall Islands to discuss the Middle East crisis and regional economic resilience, including the Pacific Resilience Facility. Governance & identity: Fiji is re-elected chair of a regional civil registration steering group, backing reforms for legal identity and better service delivery.