The Ministry of Trade and Economic Development (MTED), in collaboration with the Tonga Chamber of Commerce & Industry Inc. (TCCI), successfully hosted the third Tonga National Business Conference (TNBC) 2025 from February 18–19. This two-day event brought together government leaders, industry experts, and private sector representatives to discuss strategies for fostering innovation and driving sustainable growth.

TCCI President, Mr. Sam Vea in his opening remarks emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for participants to connect, exchange ideas, and establish future collaborations. Hon. Kapelieli Militoni Lanumata, Minister for MTED, addressed the challenges facing Tonga’s economy, including limited financial resources, technological barriers, and the effects of the labour mobility program on the domestic market. He also highlighted MTED’s recent innovations, such as the upgraded Business Registry System and the Online Job Search Platform.

The conference began with roundtable discussions on recommendations from the 2023 TNBC, featuring CEOs and senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism Tonga, Ministry of Agriculture Food and Forest- Tonga, Ministry of Fisheries – Tonga, Ministry of Finance Kingdom of TONGA, Ministry of Revenue & Customs Tonga

Key sessions covered topics such as:

• Women in Business Growth

• E-commerce Opportunities

• What It Takes to Run a Business (Entrepreneurship)

• Financing Businesses

• Attracting and Retaining Good Employees

• How Businesses Can Be More Innovative

Through open dialogue between the private sector representatives and government officials,

voices were heard, highlighting challenges and recommendations for future practical solutions. These insights will play a vital role in shaping future MTED initiatives and government strategies.