A new report, “Economic Impact of International Yachting in Tonga,” has highlighted the potential for yachting tourism to boost the country’s economy.
Launched by the Market Development Facility (MDF) and partners, the study outlines economic contributions, challenges, and opportunities in this niche sector.
MDF’s Regional Director, Nick Wolf, revealed that yachting tourism contributed 15.4 million pa‘anga to Tonga’s economy in 2023. “The significance of this industry is clear, and it presents a real opportunity for Tonga’s economic growth,” Wolf said.
Tonga’s Ministry of Tourism CEO, Viliami Takau, stressed the importance of the findings. “This report provides valuable insights to guide policies that aim to grow Tonga’s yachting tourism revenue to compete with Fiji and Vanuatu,” Takau said.
Recommendations include targeted marketing, regulatory changes to encourage boat chartering, and adjusting customs rules to promote longer yacht stays.
Stakeholders aim to make Tonga’s yachting sector a competitive regional player.