APT Events

The 19th APT Policy and Regulation Forum for Pacific (PRFP-19)

• 4 August 2026 - 6 August 2026
• Funafuti, Tuvalu

PRFP-19 Advances Digital Connectivity and Resilience across the Pacific

The 19th APT Policy and Regulation Forum for Pacific (PRFP-19) was held from 4 to 6 August 2026 in Funafuti, Tuvalu, bringing together representatives of APT Members in the Pacific, Affiliate Members, international organizations and other stakeholders to exchange views on key policy and regulatory priorities for the region.

Hosted by the Ministry of Transport, Energy, Communication and Innovation, Government of Tuvalu, the Forum was attended by 73 participants, including representatives from 12 APT Members, 7 Affiliate Members and 4 international organizations. The Forum was supported through the APT Extra-Budgetary Contributions provided by the administrations of Australia, the People's Republic of China and Japan.

PRFP-19 provided an important regional platform for Pacific Members and stakeholders to discuss current and emerging issues relating to digital transformation, connectivity, resilient digital infrastructure, emergency communications, satellite services, digital government and innovation, among other areas of growing importance to the Pacific.

The discussions placed particular emphasis on practical policy and regulatory approaches that reflect the unique circumstances of Pacific Island countries, including geographical isolation, vulnerability to natural disasters, infrastructure constraints and the need to ensure affordable, resilient and inclusive digital connectivity.

Among the key outcomes of PRFP-19 were:

• Approval of the ECRS Framework and Guidelines: The Forum considered and approved the Emergency Communications Regulatory Sandbox (ECRS) Framework and Guidelines, providing Pacific Island countries with a voluntary reference framework to support the implementation of ECRS initiatives. The Framework is intended to facilitate flexible and responsive regulatory approaches in support of emergency communications and recovery efforts.
• Nomination and appointment of PRFP Office Bearers: The Forum nominated and re-appointed Ms. Tupou'tuah Baravilala of the Republic of Fiji as Chair of PRFP, and Mr. Domingo Bauro Kabunare of the Republic of Kiribati and Mr. William Stanon Ahio of the Kingdom of Tonga as Vice-Chairs for the next two-year term.

PRFP-19 delivered substantive outcomes while further strengthening regional dialogue, cooperation and knowledge-sharing among Pacific Members and partners. The Forum reaffirmed the shared commitment to advancing digital connectivity, resilience, innovation and inclusive digital transformation across the Pacific and underscored the importance of continued regional collaboration in addressing common policy and regulatory challenges.

Photo Gallery | Video

Meeting Documents