Vanuatu

While Australia prepares its domestic interventions, it needs to spare some thought for the Pacific as well, say Alexandre Dayant and Jonathan Pryke from the Lowy Institute’s The Interpreter

Vanuatu comprises 83 islands, a wonderland of waterfalls, volcanoes, jungles and white-sand beaches, where visitors are treated to  excellent snorkelling and diving, authentic local performances and luxury resorts. Bronwen Gora goes island hopping.

Total SA Chairman says company is planning to commence construction of LNG plant in 2018, Ramu NiCo ordered to stop operating nickel mine and Harmony Gold reports ‘continuing exploration success.’ Your weekly digest of the latest business news.

Central bank seeks temporary loan to cover backlog of demand for foreign currency, district grants and non-tax paying companies under fire and kina to fall to its lowest level since 2003 if current rate of depreciation continues. Your weekly digest of the latest business news.

Agriculture Minister says annual investment in agriculture is just K150 million a year, call for mining sector style tax incentives for agriculture, and Leaders’ summit critically important, says O’Neill. Your weekly digest of the latest business news.

Papua New Guinean tourism operators flew the flag in Australia last weekend at the South Pacific Tourism Exchange at Melbourne’s Convention and Exhibition Centre. Robert Upe reports visitor arrivals are expected to rise, due in part to cruise ships improving tourists’ perceptions of PNG.

Motukea Island Port project expressions of interest called for, PM dismisses ‘secret deals’ with Rio Tinto, and Star Mountains project JV launches exploration campaign. Your weekly digest of the latest business news.

The luxury cruise line Carnival Australia has signed a three-year deal with AusAID to boost local business tourism opportunities in Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu.

Growth across the Pacific region is expected to slow slightly during 2013, with Timor Leste, Papua New Guinea and Nauru the outstanding performers, according to a mid-year review by the Asian Development Bank.

Jo Chandler catches TB in Papua New Guinea, Australian police investigate PNG money laundering, NZ diplomat’s posthumous attack and more international stories.