In a strategic tour, Tonga Rugby Union (TRU) CEO Aisea Aholelei visited Guangdong, Fujian, Beijing and Hong Kong to explore partnerships across player pathways, coaching, school programs and commercial ventures.
China, still a newcomer to rugby, is reportedly ready to “invest internally and externally” in the sport. The Pingtan region in Fujian, noted for its Austronesian heritage, is constructing elite sports facilities and intends to apply the same ambition to rugby, strengthened by longstanding ties with Tonga.
The visit follows a recent trend of regional support. In Japan, the JRFU donated substantial gear (150 balls, 138 cones, tackle shields and more) to TRU under its ‘Sport for Tomorrow’ initiative, reinforcing bilateral rugby cooperation. Meanwhile, Japan’s GGP grant helped fund a high-performance gym for the TRU in Fasi.
‘Aholelei described rugby as a uniting force across nations and cultures, offering opportunities for growth at both grassroots and elite levels. He thanked the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Tonga for the chance to experience China’s rich culture and meet regional stakeholders from councils, sports organisations, schools and the commercial sector.
With China’s willingness to invest in rugby, this could be key to opening fresh pathways for Tongans.
