Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism

This issue includes updates on recovery resources for businesses, nonprofits and residents affected by recent severe weather, the state’s planned acquisition of the Wahiawa Dam and irrigation system and the upcoming Hawaii-Philippines Business Symposium and Hawaii-Japan Sister Summit. These efforts reflect the broad scope of DBEDT’s work, from agriculture and infrastructure to international partnerships, tourism, energy, education and the creative economy.

In this issue, you will find the 2026 first quarter economic forecast, new reports on international students and tourism’s role in Hawaii’s economy, the latest Hawaii Tourism Price Index update, new population reports on Native Hawaiian, Korean and Vietnamese residents, and highlights from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Vintage 2025 population estimates. We appreciate your interest in our work and welcome your feedback. Please explore the dashboards, reports and resources linked throughout this issue.

This issue features a range of efforts underway, from bills focused on affordable housing, small businesses and film production, to initiatives that help Hawaii companies grow, create jobs and reach new markets. This month’s newsletter also reflects DBEDT’s focus on long-term economic growth. Efforts to strengthen food and product innovation, advance sustainable manufacturing and share tools for more responsible visitor practices all contribute to a stronger and more resilient economy for Hawaii.

Discover how Hawaii is forging a more resilient and diverse economy through innovation in classrooms, farms, factories, and energy systems, utilizing regional growth hubs and resilient design strategies.

Across the department, teams are pairing policy work with on-the-ground action to deliver meaningful results for Hawaii’s communities. This issue highlights priority measures to support small business growth and innovation, strengthen down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers and promote film and television as an economic driver.

As we begin 2026 and embark on the legislative session, DBEDT’s work continues to focus on building a strong, balanced economy that creates opportunity across Hawaii. This month’s newsletter highlights how that work shows up across industries, communities and careers. We are also sharing new tools and resources to support informed decision-making and public engagement.

This issue features the County Social, Business and Economic Trends report, the 2025 Fourth Quarter Statistical and Economic Report, and recent research on self-sufficiency budgets, economic diversification, and the film tax credit. You will also find READ’s regular updates on labor markets, tax revenues, construction, visitor activity, Maui recovery trends and monthly energy trends.

This has been a busy and productive year for DBEDT. Our team has worked across divisions and agencies to advance priorities tied to economic resilience, affordability and opportunity. This newsletter reflects strong collaboration with state and county agencies, community organizations, private sector partners and the many stakeholders who share their time, expertise and trust.

This month’s newsletter highlights how DBEDT and our partners are turning plans into results for Hawaii – strengthening local food systems, helping families and small businesses manage energy costs, and creating spaces for innovation in agriculture and energy. Mahalo for your continued support of DBEDT’s work to expand opportunities for Hawaii’s people, communities, and businesses.

In this edition, we’re spotlighting partnerships that create tangible benefits for Hawaii. Engagements with Taiwan are expanding work in culture, sustainability, biotechnology, smart agriculture, and tourism. In Japan, clean energy agreements and renewed ties with Okinawa align with our path to decarbonization. At home, we are investing in opportunities for small businesses, like the HI-CAP program. Mahalo for your continued support of DBEDT’s mission.