Pacific trade ministers have concluded their first in-person meeting under the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus (PACER Plus) since its implementation in 2020. The talks focused on advancing trade, foreign investment, and economic cooperation among member nations.
The meeting, chaired by Samoa’s Trade Minister, Hon. Leota Laki Lamositele, included representatives from Tonga, Australia, New Zealand, and other Pacific nations. Tonga’s delegation was led by the Minister of Trade and Economic Development (MTED), Hon. Dr. Viliami Uasike Latu.
Tonga ratified PACER Plus in 2020, which has significantly benefited the private sector, including workers and businesses affected by COVID-19 and the HTHH disaster.

Key discussions included enhancing support for private-sector growth, advancing labor mobility, and simplifying export processes for goods like kava. Ministers also endorsed extending PACER Plus programs for five more years beyond 2025.
The meeting demonstrated a unified commitment to strengthening trade and investment ties across the Pacific.