Pacific Insights - Monday 18 March 2024

Welcome to the 33rd edition of Pacific Insights, delivered to your inbox directly on a weekly basis.

Thank you for being with us as we navigate the ever-changing landscapes of business, economics, and geopolitics across the Pacific. In this 33rd edition, we explore some of the latest updates across the region including Cook Islands immigration law ruling, Vanuatu and Australia infrastructure investment, military population in Guam projected to grow, World Bank evaluates PNG’s economy, Samoan cooked breadfruit exported to Australia, and much more for our premium subscribers.

Cook Islands High Court Deems Immigration Law Favouring New Zealanders Invalid

The Cook Islands High Court has ruled that the nation's immigration law, which grants preferential treatment to New Zealand citizens over others, is invalid. Under current regulations, New Zealand passport holders can apply for permanent residency after five years, while nationals of other countries must wait a minimum of 10 years. The court's decision follows a challenge by Cook Islands charity Friends of Fiji, arguing that the policy was discriminatory. Justice Patrick Keane found that the regulation providing preferential treatment lacked proper support from an act of Parliament, rendering it invalid. While the ruling is seen as a victory for Friends of Fiji, it remains to be seen how the government will address the issue, with potential changes to the Immigration Act likely forthcoming. Any alterations made would need to align with current regulations before the next permanent residency expression of interest opens in August 2025.

Image: Cook Islands Flag (accessed via canva.com)

Vanuatu and Australia Launch TAFEA Infrastructure Investments

Vanuatu and Australia have jointly initiated two significant infrastructure projects in TAFEA Province aimed at fostering social and economic development on Vanuatu's southern islands, particularly in the aftermath of severe weather events like Tropical Cyclones Judy and Kevin. Led by Prime Minister Charlot Salwai and Australian High Commissioner Heidi Bootle, the ceremony marked the commencement of the Isangel Loop upgrade and the construction of the Imanaka Bridge. These projects, part of ongoing collaborative efforts between Vanuatu and Australia, prioritise access to essential services and create opportunities for local communities. The Isangel Loop road, once completed, will provide access to vital facilities such as government offices, health clinics, and schools, while the reconstruction of the Imanaka Bridge will restore connectivity between Lenakel Township, the airport, and tourist attractions, boosting economic revitalization on Tanna.

Military Population Projected to Grow Steadily on Guam

According to Joint Region Marianas (JRM), the military presence on Guam is set to increase by 2,500 individuals over the next two years, with an additional 15,500 people expected by 2037. This growth encompasses various personnel, including active-duty military, civilians working for the Department of Defense, reservists, National Guard members, and their dependents. While projections suggest an average yearly increase of 1,384 individuals for the next 13 years, these figures remain subject to change based on mission requirements. Despite Attorney General Douglas Moylan's earlier estimations of 45,000 new military personnel and dependents arriving in the next 12 to 24 months, JRM indicates a more modest growth rate. Additionally, the Marine Corps relocation from Okinawa to Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz will see a gradual influx of personnel, with planning ongoing for incremental arrivals until the late 2020s. Collaboration between the Department of Defense and local agencies aims to address infrastructure and community needs amidst the buildup.

World Bank Highlights Low Economic Performance in PNG

Papua New Guinea (PNG) grapples with a stark disparity between its abundant natural resource wealth and the welfare gains experienced by its citizens, according to a recent evaluation by the World Bank. Despite significant growth spurred by resource sector development and high commodity prices, the benefits have not been felt by the population. Gender inequality, underinvestment in non-extractive sectors, and vulnerability to natural hazards hinder sustainable growth. Additionally, barriers such as overvalued currency, insecurity, poor infrastructure, and weak institutions further impede economic transformation. The report underscores the need for improved data collection, strategic policy reforms, and enhanced efforts to address social and governance issues to achieve lasting development impact in PNG.

Samoan Cooked Breadfruit Exported to Australia

Amidst a current surplus of breadfruit in Samoa, much of which is going to waste, the export of cooked breadfruit to Australia has been initiated. Biosecurity Samoa announced that the Australian Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has revised import requirements, eliminating the need for a phytosanitary certificate for cooked breadfruit. However, the fruit must be fully cooked, and peeling is not necessary. Clean, new packaging is mandated, and the breadfruit must be devoid of any biosecurity risk material. For personal use, cooked breadfruit is limited to 20kg per passenger and will undergo inspection. Larger consignments require documentation detailing the cooking process. This development signifies a significant step forward in promoting Samoan horticulture and fostering cultural exchange between Samoa and Australia.

Image: Samoan Breadfruit (accessed via talamua.com)