Pacific Diplomacy Shock: The Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting in Palau opened with major absences and fresh claims of China-linked interference, with Taiwan’s presence also drawing anger and “highly suspicious” questions from New Zealand. Bougainville Decision Pressure: PNG MPs are being urged to slow down before ratifying Bougainville’s 2019 independence vote, with calls for deeper review of what independence would mean for PNG and the region. Consumer Protection Push: PNG’s ICCC says it will expand to a permanent regulatory presence in every province under its 2026–2030 plan, using provincial agents to handle complaints and monitor compliance. Financial Safety Move: Westpac PNG signed the PNG Empower Finance Code, aiming to curb financial abuse and improve safer, more inclusive services. Mining Drilling Updates: South Pacific Metals extended the Megabe mineralised strike at its Osena project to over 300 metres, while Great Pacific Gold reported broad, shallow gold intercepts at Kavasuki on its Wild Dog project. Energy Deal Watch: PNG’s revised Papua LNG gas agreement sets a 15 December “drop-dead” deadline for FID and signals possible operator changes, with conditional incentives tied to LNG price outcomes. Maritime Capability: JJ Ship Equip Agencies highlights the need for stronger in-country maritime support services to reduce downtime and build PNG’s shipping resilience. Infrastructure Safety: PNG’s revised seismic bridge design guidance flags hazards including Markham Bridge, with JICA support discussed for redesign after earthquake impacts. Tourism & Sports: PNG welcomed Jarome Luai and international golfers for the PNG Open, pitching sports tourism as a growing industry.