This week marked a significant milestone for Tonga with the launch of the ‘Tonga Standardisation Roadmap’, a strategic initiative that aims to bring numerous benefits to the Pacific Island country and its citizens. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Trade and Economic Development (MTED) and Standards Australia, funded by Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU).

The Roadmap is a blueprint for establishing an efficient and streamlined standardisation system in Tonga. This system is crucial for fostering innovation, supporting economic growth, and enhancing quality, safety, and well-being. In addition, the Roadmap identifies opportunities where standards can bolster both public and private objectives at a national level.

The Roadmap presents a 10-year vision for Tonga that seeks to:

• Increase Tongan exports, including by supporting market access and consumer trust in Tongan products.
• Protect Tongan consumers from low quality or unsafe imported products.
• Protect and promote a resilient natural environment; and
• Build reliable infrastructure, including for energy, construction, and health.

Hon. Dr. Viliami Uasike Latu, Minister for Trade and Economic Development said about the launch, “the Roadmap is an investment in Tonga’s national capability and will position Tonga to meet our national objectives as well as international obligations around standards and trade”.

Adam Stingemore, Chief Development Officer at Standards Australia, highlights the importance of the initiative. “Previous consultations that took place earlier this year were pivotal in understanding the need for standards in Tonga. Discussions ranging from the requirements of exporters to safeguarding consumers and the environment helped shape the final Roadmap - a foundational step in developing Tonga’s national standards infrastructure.”

The MTED and Standards Australia will continue the collaboration under PACER Plus for the next phase of implementation.