Today in Oceania - Tuesday 22nd April 2025
Published 7 days ago • 8 min read
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Know what’s happening across Oceania—before your coffee’s cold.
ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA). Photo Credit: ASEAN
Upgraded ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement
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The upgraded ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA) officially entered into force on April 21, 2025, marking a significant enhancement in trade relations among the participating countries. This upgrade aims to modernize the existing agreement, reduce trade barriers, and foster economic growth in the region.
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Key Highlights of the AANZFTA Upgrade
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Enhanced Trade Facilitation: The upgrade introduces simplified rules of origin and streamlined customs procedures, making it easier for businesses to export and import goods across member countries.
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Digital Trade and Services: Provisions have been added to support digital trade, including improved cooperation on e-commerce and digital services, reflecting the growing importance of the digital economy.
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Supply Chain Resilience: New measures are in place to safeguard supply chains during crises, ensuring stability and continuity of trade in unforeseen circumstances.
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Investment Protections: The agreement strengthens protections for investors, providing a more secure environment for cross-border investments.
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Sustainable Development: Commitments have been made to promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth, aligning trade practices with environmental and social objectives.
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Implementation Timeline
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As of April 21, 2025, the upgraded agreement is in effect for Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, Laos PDR, and Brunei Darussalam. For the remaining ASEAN member states, the upgrade will enter into force 60 days after they complete their respective domestic ratification processes.
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This upgraded agreement is expected to significantly boost trade and investment flows, providing new opportunities for businesses and contributing to the economic prosperity of the region.
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Green turtles are commonly observed at Palmyra Atoll National Wildlife Refuge. Photo Credit: Kydd Pollock
U.S. Executive Order Reopens Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument to Commercial Fishing After 16 Years of Protection
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On April 17, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order reopening the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument (PIHMNM) to commercial fishing, ending 16 years of federal protection for this vast marine area. The monument, encompassing approximately 408,000 square miles of ocean southwest of Hawaii, was originally established in 2009 by President George W. Bush and expanded in 2014 by President Barack Obama to safeguard marine biodiversity, including endangered species like hawksbill and Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles.
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The Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument (PIHMNM), formerly known as the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument, is a U.S. marine protected area encompassing approximately 495,000 square miles (1,282,534 square kilometers) of the central Pacific Ocean. It includes seven unincorporated U.S. Pacific island territories:
- Baker Island
- Howland Island
- Jarvis Island
- Johnston Atoll
- Wake Atoll
- Palmyra Atoll
- Kingman Reef
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These islands and atolls are under U.S. jurisdiction and are managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). While the islands themselves are U.S. territories, they are geographically situated in the central Pacific Ocean and are culturally and historically linked to neighboring Pacific nations. For instance, Wake Atoll has connections to the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and Kingman Reef, Palmyra Atoll, Jarvis, Howland, and Baker Islands are associated with the Republic of Kiribati. These connections reflect traditional sea voyaging routes and cultural ties.
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The monument serves as a critical habitat for numerous endemic species, including corals, fish, marine mammals, seabirds, and sea turtles. It represents one of the most extensive collections of marine and terrestrial life protected under a single country's jurisdiction.
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Justification and Industry Response
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The Trump administration argues that the fishing ban had limited impact on preventing overfishing, as many fish in the area are migratory. The executive order aims to bolster the U.S. fishing industry by removing regulatory restrictions and expanding harvesting into previously protected areas, with the goal of improving the seafood trade deficit, which currently exceeds $20 billion. Fishing industry representatives have praised the move, viewing it as a means to support economic growth and revitalize the sector.
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Environmental Concerns
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Environmental organizations have expressed deep concerns over the decision, fearing that reduced regulations could lead to overfishing and threaten marine biodiversity. Critics, including scientists and lawmakers, argue that many marine species in the area are resident and that removing protections endangers biodiversity, especially amid escalating climate threats. They emphasize the importance of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, which has long guided sustainable fisheries management.
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Regional Implications
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In January 2025, the monument was renamed to recognize the cultural heritage of the Indigenous Peoples and communities of the Pacific Islands. This renaming aims to tell a fuller story of the nation's history and advance opportunities for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities.
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PRESENTED BY VONU STUDIOS
Children's Book: Vonu and the Druas Play Hide and Seek
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Join Vonu the turtle and the stingray twins, the Druas Vai and Fai, in an exciting game of hide and seek! A heartwarming story filled with fun and adventure, perfect for young readers. Get your copy today!
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Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Hon. Biman Prasad, opened the Consultation Reflection on the National Strategic Development Plan for the Culture Sector at Yadua Bay Resort. Photo credit: Fiji Government Website
Fiji Submits First UNESCO Report on Intangible Cultural Heritage
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On April 17, 2025, Fiji submitted its inaugural national report to UNESCO under the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. This report outlines the nation's efforts over the past six years to preserve and promote its intangible cultural heritage, reflecting a commitment to cultural preservation and sustainable development.
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Major Findings
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Cultural Mapping Programme: Fiji has implemented a comprehensive Cultural Mapping Programme aimed at documenting and preserving traditional knowledge, practices, and expressions across its diverse communities. This initiative has been instrumental in safeguarding intangible heritage and ensuring its transmission to future generations.
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Integration into National Development Plans: The Fiji government is actively working to integrate culture, heritage, and arts into the 2025–2029 National Strategic Development Plan. This approach recognizes the vital role of culture in national development and aims to align cultural initiatives with broader government policies.
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Legislative Reforms: Efforts are underway to review and update existing cultural laws to better protect traditional knowledge and practices. This includes addressing challenges posed by climate change on cultural sites and advocating for the revival of traditional eco-friendly practices.
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Community Engagement and Education: The report emphasizes the importance of community involvement in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. Initiatives such as school-based programs and cultural workshops have been implemented to raise awareness and encourage the transmission of traditional skills and knowledge.
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Regional and International Collaboration: Fiji continues to engage with regional and international partners to enhance the protection of intangible cultural heritage. Collaborations with organizations like the International Information and Networking Centre for Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region (ICHCAP) have been pivotal in sharing best practices and resources.
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This comprehensive approach underscores Fiji's dedication to preserving its rich cultural heritage while adapting to contemporary challenges. The submission of the report marks a significant milestone in the nation's ongoing efforts to safeguard its intangible cultural assets.
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A diver preparing to jump. Except for the vines, land diving is performed without safety equipment. Photo credit: Paul Stein
Nagol (Land Diving) Season Commences on Pentecost Island
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April marks the beginning of the Nagol season on Pentecost Island, a traditional ritual where men leap from tall wooden towers with vines tied to their ankles.
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Cultural Significance
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The ritual is deeply rooted in Vanuatu's cultural heritage and is associated with the annual yam harvest. A successful dive is believed to ensure a bountiful harvest and is seen as a rite of passage, demonstrating courage and strength.
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Tourism and Preservation
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Over the years, land diving has attracted tourists worldwide, intrigued by this unique cultural spectacle. To maintain the authenticity of the ritual and protect it from commercialization, local chiefs have established tourism councils to manage and regulate tourist interactions.
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For those interested in witnessing this extraordinary event, tours are available during the land diving season, offering a rare glimpse into one of the world's most remarkable cultural traditions.
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SPORTS
Stawell Gift: Gout Gout and Lachie Kennedy Upset in Semifinals
Teen sprint sensation Gout Gout. Photo credit: Facebook
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Teen sprint sensation Gout Gout and fellow favorite Lachie Kennedy were eliminated in the semifinals of the 2025 Stawell Gift, Australia's oldest and richest handicap footrace. Gout, who had recently broken the 20-second barrier in the 200m at the national championships, was required to run nearly 9 meters more than his heat winner due to the race's unique handicapping system.
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South Australian schoolteacher John Evans capitalized on his 9.75m handicap to win the men's final in 11.94 seconds, securing the $40,000 prize. In the women's final, Olympian Bree Rizzo made history by becoming only the second woman to win the Gift from scratch, following Melissa Breen in 2012.
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SPOTLIGHT
Nauru's "Golden Passport"
Nauru's "Golden Passport" Initiative Aims to Fund Climate Adaptation
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Nauru has introduced the Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program (ECRCP), a "golden passport" initiative designed to fund critical climate adaptation efforts as the island faces escalating threats from rising sea levels.
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Investment Requirements and Benefits
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Minimum Contribution: $105,000 USD to the Nauru Treasury Fund.
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Processing Time: Typically 3–4 months.
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Visa-Free Access: Citizenship grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 89 countries, including the UK, Ireland, UAE, and Singapore.
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Family Inclusion: Applicants can include spouses, children, and other dependents for additional fees.
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No Residency Requirement: There is no obligation to reside in Nauru before or after obtaining citizenship.
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Application Process and Due Diligence
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Applicants must engage with licensed agents authorized by the Nauru Program Office. The process includes thorough due diligence checks to ensure applicants are of good character and pose no security risks. The government has stated that robust measures are in place to prevent misuse of the program.
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Allocation of Funds
Proceeds from the program are earmarked for:
- Relocating communities to safer, elevated areas.
- Developing renewable energy projects to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
- Enhancing infrastructure to withstand climate impacts.
- Supporting sustainable development initiatives.
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International Reception and Concerns
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While the program offers a lifeline for Nauru's climate adaptation efforts, it has drawn scrutiny. Critics express concerns over potential exploitation by individuals seeking to bypass international regulations. However, Nauru's government asserts that stringent vetting processes are in place to mitigate such risks.
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TID BITS
World Supercross Championship. Photo credit: Yahoo
Sports
World Supercross Championship Adds Gold Coast to 2025 Schedule
The World Supercross Championship has announced the addition of Robina on Australia's Gold Coast to its 2025 calendar. This inclusion joins other international locations such as London, Buenos Aires, and Cape Town, highlighting Australia's growing prominence in the global supercross scene.
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Pacific Rim Young & Global Chefs Challenge 2025 Begins. Photo credit: Facebook
Pacific Rim Young & Global Chefs Challenge 2025 Begins
The Cook Islands is hosting the semi-finals of the Pacific Rim Young & Global Chefs Challenge from April 21 to 27 at Tereora College in Nikao. The competition brings together emerging culinary talents from across the Pacific Rim, including New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, and the Solomon Islands. The event marks the first time the Cook Islands has hosted this international competition.
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Nothing Micro About Micronesia. Photo credit: Teada
Nothing Micro About Micronesia – Saipan & Guam
The theatrical production “Nothing Micro About Micronesia” is touring the Mariana Islands this April. Performances are scheduled at the Flame Tree Arts Festival in Garapan, Saipan, on April 24, 26, and 27, and at the University of Guam Fine Arts Theatre. The show blends storytelling, music, and performance to celebrate Chamorro and Carolinian heritage, offering audiences a deep dive into Micronesian culture.
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Portrait artist Lissette Yamase and carver Anthony Watson, both of Micronesian descent, will be two of the featured artists in "7 Degrees North: The Arts of Micronesia" at the Downtown Art Center, on view this July. Photo credit: Floyd K. Takeuchi
7 Degrees North: The Arts of Micronesia
An upcoming exhibit titled “7 Degrees North: The Arts of Micronesia” will be on display at the Downtown Art Center in Honolulu from July 5 to 27, 2025. This exhibition will feature contemporary artwork by Micronesian artists, including portrait artist Lissette Yamase and carver Anthony Watson. The exhibit aims to highlight the rich cultural expressions of Micronesian communities residing in Hawaiʻi.
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