Fiji and Tonga are poised to strengthen their economic relationship, with a renewed focus on private sector development and regional collaboration. This follows a series of high-level meetings led by Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, MSMEs and Communications, Honourable Manoa Kamikamica, and key members of Tonga’s banking sector in Nuku’alofa.
While the two Pacific nations share centuries-old cultural and kinship ties, a deep and sustained economic partnership has remained largely untapped. Tonga currently ranks among the top importers of Fijian goods and is fourth on Kingdom’s list of regional trading partners. This existing commercial relationship sets a strong foundation for deeper collaboration.
“The time to plant the seed for revival is now,” said Mr. David Dudley, CEO of ANZ Tonga. “We have a chance to reboot and reset our economic relationship in a way that benefits both nations and elevates development.”
Mr. Dudley highlighted Tonga’s reliance on remittances, described as “the family bank that sits outside the country”, but stressed that long-term resilience lies in empowering local businesses. He emphasized that removing barriers, expanding access to finance, and creating a conducive policy environment would unlock opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors.
Tourism, according to Mr. Dudley, stands out as Tonga’s greatest untapped economic asset.
“We understand its value, but now is the time to maximise its full potential. Fiji’s journey is a shining example. By learning from our neighbours and fostering partnerships, Tonga can elevate its tourism offering,” he said.
Deputy Prime Minister Kamikamica echoed the sentiment, noting that Fiji’s current global recognition in tourism came after years of struggle and reform. He encouraged Tongan officials to leverage regional momentum, as mega brands like Google and Red Bull show increasing interest in the Pacific and ultra-wealthy individuals seek exclusive investment destinations.
“By aligning multi-sectoral initiatives, digital infrastructure, sustainable tourism, and transparent governance, we can present a compelling investment case to the world,” said the Deputy Prime Minister.
He added that the Asia-Pacific region is being positioned as the next major growth hub, and countries like Tonga and Fiji must prepare through robust investment policies and regulatory certainty.
DPM Kamikamica shared that Fiji’s approach was to first reset national development priorities, followed by the development of targeted sector strategies and supportive reforms.
“Tonga would do well to adapt some of Fiji’s successful programmes, especially those that promote public-private collaboration,” he said. “It is through such partnerships that we build confidence, attract investment, and spark innovation.”
The DPM stressed the importance of automating government services to reduce bureaucracy, prevent fraud, and foster investor confidence.
“By cutting out middlemen and digitising approvals, we can ensure fast, transparent, and cashless systems that serve both the public and the private sector,” he said.
The visit marks a significant step forward in rekindling a meaningful economic alliance between two of the Pacific’s closest neighbours.
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