8 May 2024: In a proactive move towards fostering economic growth and enhancing resilience in the labor market, the Ministry of Trade and Economic Development (MTED) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) are embarking on a collaborative effort to develop a National Employment Policy for the Kingdom of Tonga.

The first phase of this initiative commenced with a two-day workshop bringing together relevant government officials, representatives from workers’ and employers’ organizations, social partners, and other key stakeholders.

The primary aim of this workshop is to draw on the expertise of the ILO in developing and implementing high-quality national employment policies, while also providing a platform for participants to share insights, exchange ideas, and deliberate on the best strategies for formulating a policy that best reflects Tonga’s unique labor market dynamics and development needs.

Following this workshop, qualified consultants will initiate drafting of the national employment policy for Tonga based on the invaluable inputs and feedback gathered during the initial phase. Subsequently, a second workshop is scheduled to convene, allowing stakeholders the opportunity to provide additional feedback, recommendations, and considerations for further refinement of the policy draft.

This collaborative process ensures that the development of Tonga’s national employment policy remains inclusive, responsive, and tailored to the specific needs of the Tongan workforce and economy. Anticipating the completion of these crucial tasks by December 2024, the roadmap outlines the goal of finalizing the National Employment Policy early by 2025.