Kingdom of Tonga
Mālō e lelei
Welcome to the Kingdom of Tonga Investment Promotion Website.
We provide information, resources, and key contacts to help investors make informed decisions about investing in Tonga and its economy. We are committed to creating an environment that encourages and welcomes foreign direct investment and is committed to growing the local economy.
About Tonga
The Ministry of Trade and Economic Development of Tonga, through its Investment Division, monitors this webpage. The missions of the Ministry are based on the national economic outcome of Tonga Strategic Development Framework II: “more progressive Tonga, supporting a higher quality of life for all, through more inclusive and sustainable economic growth and development.” – The TSDF II closer public-private collaboration for economic prosperity. Improved business-enabling climate. Improved access to and use of international trade, employment, and foreign investment. The following are the Ministry’s
Leader in enabling private sector growth and development.
Our Vision
Commitment to strengthen partnership with all stakeholders to effective deliver our services.
Our Mission
Values
Teamwork
Performance Orientated
Innovation
Accountability
Whole of Ministry Responsibility
Investors Story
Services
Tourism
Explore Tonga's culture, beaches, and scenery with an investment!
Agri-Processing
Invest in Tonga agri-processing to unlock profits and sustainability.
Fisheries (Processing)
Grow your business with fishery investing opportunities in Tonga.
Contact
Please contact us by phone or use the form below to send us a message for further information.
Phone Number
Explore Our Sectors
Tourism
Tonga's Tourism: A Treasure Trove Waiting to be Discovered
Tonga’s tourism industry has grown into a profitable investment opportunity for companies wishing to expand their operations. Despite the triple disaster that hit Tonga concurrently last year (volcanic eruption, tsunami, followed by COVID-19 restrictions) that claimed a few of the tourism businesses on the main island as well as Ha’apai and ‘Eua.
Agri-Processing
Yam, Taro, Coconut, Melon, Kava Noni: The Golden Harvest of Tonga
Investing in agri-processing in Tonga is an excellent way to capitalize on the country’s abundant natural resources. Tonga, which is located in the South Pacific Ocean, is endowed with a range of crops such as taro, yam, coconut, melon, nonu, and kava. These crops may be harvested and processed into finished commodities that can be exported or sold locally as part of an agri-processing operation.
Fisheries (Processing)
Fresh out of the Pacific Ocean
Tonga’s geographical location in the South Pacific Ocean makes it an attractive site for investment in the fisheries sector. The nation boasts a huge sea region that is home to a broad assortment of fish species, including tuna, mahi-mahi, and snapper. Tonga’s fisheries sector, with proper management and investment, has the potential to offer sustainable lives for local populations while also contributing to the country’s economic prosperity.
Benefits Of Tonga
Ideal Location
Tonga’s location in the South Pacific is significant. It is situated at the crossroads of major marine routes, enabling easy access to markets in Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the Americas. Tonga has many deep-water ports capable of housing large cargo ships, making it an ideal destination for both importers and exporters. Its location also makes it an excellent transhipment hub, allowing businesses to easily shift goods between different sites.
Stable Political Environment
Tonga has a stable political climate; the government is democratic, with a constitutional monarchy and a parliament chosen by the people. The country has a low crime rate, and the government is devoted to encouraging economic growth and development.
Favorable Business Climate
Tonga has an advantageous business climate, with rules and regulations that stimulate investment and entrepreneurship. The country has a straightforward tax structure, with a 25% corporation tax rate and no personal income tax. Furthermore, Tonga has a well-developed financial industry, with a variety of banking and financial services available to businesses and investors. The government also provides tax breaks and duty exemptions for specific sectors.
Abundant Natural Resources
Tonga has an abundance of natural resources, such as rich land, pure water, and a broad diversity of marine life. These resources give several options for agricultural, fishing, and tourist industries. The agriculture industry of the nation is focused on exporting high-quality commodities such as vanilla, melon, and root vegetables. Tonga’s fishing sector is also quickly expanding, with a diverse range of fish and seafood available for export. The tourist industry is also growing, with people from all over the world drawn to Tonga’s gorgeous beaches, coral reefs, and cultural attractions.
Vibrant Human Capital
Tonga’s human capital is one of the country’s most valuable assets. The country has a highly trained and motivated workforce that is capable of adjusting to new challenges and opportunities. Tonga’s significant emphasis on education and training has resulted in a culture of constant learning and progress. Investors who opt to create enterprises in Tonga can benefit immensely from this vibrant human capital. They will have access to a pool of skilled and motivated employees that are ready to learn and grow with their firm.
Role Of The Ministry On Investment
Investment in Tonga offers an unparalleled investment opportunity in the beautiful South Pacific islands.
Providing full support for foreign direct investments, setting up businesses, and exploring a wide range of other financial services for entrepreneurs and businesses who wish to invest in the islands. The Ministry of Trade and Economic Development (MTED) connects investors to representatives of leading ministries and can serve as an initial point of contact for investor inquiries. MTED has responsibility for implementing the following main activities:
- Branding the region as an investment destination to attract foreign direct investment (FDI).
- Strategic Investment Promotion Missions to and from Targeted Markets.
- Tonga Business Policy/Investment Climate Dialogue and Reform.
- Sector Research, Analysis, and FDI Data Management.
Let's Get Started
Businesses operating in Tonga must register with the Business Registries Intellectual Property Office (BRIPO), which is mandated by the Ministry of Trade and Economic Development. The BRIPO oversees 10 business registries for businesses, including foreign investment, and 6 intellectual property registries. For foreign investors, engage in any trade, business, or industry activity with the intent of making a profit, including any trade vocation or calling. Section 6 of the Foreign Investment Act mandates registration for foreign investments.
The following forms must be completed:
- Form for Requesting Foreign Investment
Information regarding Foreign Investment registration:
- Checklist for Foreign Investment
- Reserve and Restricted List for Foreign Investment.
Note: Before registering as a company and obtaining a business licence, foreign investors must first apply for a Foreign Investment Registration Certificate (FIRC).
Visit www.businessregistries.gov.to for additional details on registration.
Sector Incentives
Investment Ready Opportunities
Investment-eligible activities in the priority sectors
