Solomon Islands trade & business: SICCI is urging provincial SMEs to enter the expanded 2026 Business Excellence Awards, now with 21 categories (22 including the Prime Minister’s Award) and a new dedicated SME category, with promotion via radio, social media and chamber networks. National trade fair push: The 2026 National Annual Trade Fair in Honiara is spotlighting innovation and entrepreneurship, with Minister Harry Kuma linking it to Solomon Islands’ 2027 LDC graduation and the need for more domestic production and value-adding. Infrastructure for growth: Malaita road upgrades are moving closer to construction after community consultations, while West Makira received a $1.5m China-funded transport boost of boats and outboard engines to support health, education, fisheries and agriculture. Biosecurity for food security: Government launched a 10-year National Biosecurity Strategy (2026–2036) to protect agriculture, trade and the rural economy from pests and diseases. Governance & elections funding: Japan provided JPY 430m (about US$3m) to UNDP for the SIDGEAP project to strengthen electoral institutions. Airport safety & US support: The US says it will provide four aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicles for Honiara International Airport, and MCC will assess Parliament building rehabilitation costs. Accountants’ skills: ISIA will hold its 3rd annual congress in Honiara on Sept 17–18, urging employers to back professional development. Politics & foreign influence row: Solomon Islands Opposition is demanding answers over leaked communications alleging Australian financial assistance could be tied to influencing domestic political outcomes.