The Minister for Trade & Economic Development, Hon. Dr. Viliami Uasike Latu, and his Ministry launched Tonga’s first National Standardisation Roadmap yesterday at the Liku’alofa Centre, Tofoa. This roadmap aims to implement and enforce quality standards across various sectors in Tonga, in collaboration with PACER Plus and Standards Australia.
“This roadmap represents a strategic government initiative to establish and uphold quality standards in our services, products, and systems, thereby enhancing trade,” said Hon. Dr. Latu. “It ensures that both imported and exported goods meet stringent quality criteria, benefiting consumers.”
Dr. Latu emphasised the roadmap’s role in fostering a competitive business environment in Tonga. “By setting these standards, we create a level playing field for businesses, encouraging innovation and quality improvements.”
The Australian High Commissioner to Tonga, HE Mr. Brek Batley, highlighted the roadmap’s significance for trade confidence. “This initiative allows businesses to trade with assurance, knowing that all products meet established standards.”
The roadmap outlines a 10-year vision for Tonga, focusing on increasing exports by supporting market access and building consumer trust in Tongan products. It aims to protect consumers from substandard or unsafe imports, promote environmental resilience, and develop reliable infrastructure in key areas such as energy, construction, and healthcare.
Hon. Dr. Latu said, “The Roadmap is an investment in Tonga’s national capabilities, positioning us to meet both national objectives and international standards in trade.”
This initiative is a joint effort between the Ministry of Trade and Economic Development and Standards Australia, supported by the PACER Plus Implementation Unit. Standards Australia’s Chief Development Officer, Adam Stingemore, said, “This project lays the foundation for Tonga’s national standards infrastructure, enabling the development and adoption of standards aligned with national goals.”
The Ministry and Standards Australia will continue their partnership under PACER Plus as they move into the next phase of implementation.
