Tonga Country Report
Tonga is a developing Polynesian nation of over 170 islands located in the South Pacific Ocean. In addition to improving stability, the country has experienced economic growth in recent years, driven by the agricultural sector, rising construction spending and strong tourism. However, unemployment is relatively high and the government continues to rely on foreign aid to finance various projects.
Crime, conflict, insurgency and terrorism are not considered major threats. However, corruption and weak rule of law in both the public and private sectors can pose major challenges for companies operating or planning to establish in the country.
Tonga’s location makes it vulnerable to hurricanes and earthquakes, and the lack of funds to fully implement its preparedness and recovery programs can increase the impact of natural disasters on the population, infrastructure, and national economy.
Last updated: April 13, 2022
Security
Conflict, terrorism, and insurgency are unlikely to have a significant impact on the safety of travelers in Tonga. Crime rates are also generally low, although petty crime and theft do occur. Cases of physical and sexual assaults against foreigners have also been reported from time to time, and the probability of such incidents occurring at night is higher.
Last updated: September 1, 2023
Infrastructure
Air travel in Tonga is generally safe, but there are concerns about regulatory oversight and domestic flights are sometimes unreliable.
Tonga’s road network is generally considered adequate, although some of the more isolated routes are in poor condition.
The port of Nukualofa is efficient.
Densely populated areas have sufficient electricity, communication, and internet infrastructure. However, the quality of such services is low in some rural areas.
There is a growing concern about the threat of cyber attacks that could damage the country’s economy.
Last updated: December 29, 2022
Environment
Extreme weather conditions often occur during El Niño or La Niña events. El Nino can cause severe droughts in the country, while La Niña causes frequent rainfall during the rainy season and increases the risk of typhoons that affect the country during the hurricane season from November to April. During the cyclone season, severe storms and weak atmospheric disturbances occur with frequency and the country is vulnerable to earthquakes of varying strength. Coastal areas are also at risk of tsunami.
In February 2018, Tonga was hit by Tropical Cyclone Gita, the strongest storm to hit the Tongan Islands in at least 60 years, causing flooding and infrastructure damage across the country.
Last updated: March 17, 2022
Health and Medical
There are no major disease concerns in Tonga. However, medical care is limited, and more severe conditions may require evacuation. Most medicines are available in urban centers, but availability may be limited in remote areas.
Last updated: September 8, 2023
Political
Tonga has seen increasing stability since holding its first democratic elections in November 2010 and has held several elections since then. However, high levels of corruption and weak rule of law remain major concerns for those working in the country.
Last updated: March 30, 2022
