The Minister for Trade and Economic Development of Tonga, Hon. Kapelieli Lanumata, held a bilateral meeting with Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, SMEs and Communications, Hon. Manoa Kamikamica, to strengthen trade and investment collaboration between the two countries.

The meeting highlighted the long-standing trade relations between Tonga and Fiji and the shared desire to deepen economic engagement. Both Ministers recognized the importance of enhancing cooperation between private sectors and revisiting regional trade frameworks, including the Pacific Island Countries Trade Agreement (PICTA). They also discussed the potential for developing bilateral trade agreements tailored to the national interests and economic priorities of both countries.

Key issues raised included regional trade development and environmental sustainability, particularly the need to address overfishing and support sustainable fisheries in the Pacific.

The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening communication and fostering ongoing dialogue at the technical and institutional levels.