Charting a Resilient Future: Tonga Launches 2025–2030 Tourism Roadmap at National Forum

The Kingdom of Tonga has taken a bold step toward revitalising its tourism industry with the successful hosting of the National Tourism Forum, held from March 13–14, 2025 at the Fa’onelua Conference Centre in Nuku’alofa. The forum focused on developing the Tonga Tourism Roadmap 2025–2030, a strategic initiative designed to rebuild and transform the sector into a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable economic driver.

The forum brought together government leaders, private sector representatives, development partners, community stakeholders, and regional experts for a high-level dialogue on the future of tourism in the Kingdom. It was opened under the esteemed patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Salote Mafile’o Pilolevu Tuita, signalling national support for tourism-led recovery and growth.

The Kingdom’s tourism sector has faced considerable adversity in recent years, grappling with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters such as the volcanic eruption, and broader climate-related challenges. Recognising the urgent need for strategic direction, the Ministry of Tourism convened this forum to craft a clear path forward for 2025–2030, grounded in the principles of sustainability, climate resilience, investment readiness, and community benefits.

“The forum is not just about recovery—it’s about transformation,” said Tourism Ministry’s Chief Executive Officer Viliami Takau. “We are creating a roadmap that ensures tourism contributes meaningfully to Tonga’s economy, protects our environment, and uplifts our people.”

Delivered through a participatory and consultative approach, the two-day forum featured expert-led workshops and interactive panel discussions. It tackled key themes such as: Climate Change Adaptation & Disaster Risk Management; Sustainable Tourism Development & Environmental Stewardship; Tourism Investment & Infrastructure; Inclusive Community Engagement & Livelihoods; Risk Financing for Tourism Recovery

The forum outcomes will directly inform the Tonga Tourism Roadmap 2025–2030, which is now under development and scheduled for finalisation in October 2025. The roadmap will reflect input from ongoing nationwide consultations and stakeholder workshops to ensure it is inclusive, locally driven, and future-focused.

Key partners included the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), International Trade Centre (ITC), Pacific Catastrophe Risk Insurance Company (PCRIC), and the Tonga Tourism Association. The initiative is supported by Australia and New Zealand, under the PACER Plus framework.

ENDS.

Photo Credits: Ministry of Tourism Tonga

Source: Ministry of Tourism Tonga