El Niño Impacts Seaweed Farming: Western Province seaweed growers say nonstop rain, stronger winds and longer low tides are slowing drying and packaging, cutting income after Cyclone Maila destroyed farms. Climate Diplomacy Ahead of COP31: PM Matthew Wale will attend pre-COP31 meetings in Fiji and a Tuvalu day trip to show sea-level rise impacts, pushing for loss and damage finance, 1.5°C and maritime sovereignty. Energy Reform for Cheaper Power: Solomon Power says a new non-fuel electricity tariff framework (2026–2028) aims to reduce charges while keeping investment in renewables and reliability; the UK also agreed next-stage legal work for an independent energy regulator. Fisheries Policy: The beche-de-mer fishery will close from 31 October 2026, with enforcement and compliance steps starting now. Mining Governance: Solomon Islands rejoined EITI as gold and nickel projects expand, while Makira Ulawa moves to map minerals using new data collection. Agribusiness Push: SIART invested $8.7m into community pig farming groups, and ADRA is urging cocoa farmers to plant more trees; rice trials enter final field stages ahead of harvest. Business & Transport: Reeves Envico confirmed as sponsor for SICCI’s 9th Business Excellence Awards (Building and Construction); West Are’are shipping routes expand to improve access for copra and local trade. Economy Watch: CPI rose 1.3% in August; government’s operating deficit widened to SBD$37m.