Tonga National Aquaculture Management and Development Plan 2024-2029.

Tonga’s National Aquaculture Management and Development Plan povides a roadmap for achieving a sustainable, resilient and integrated aquaculture sector for the people of Tonga. The timeframe of the Plan is 5 years covering the period of 2024-2029. The objectives of this Plan are: (i) to strengthen the management and sustainable development of the aquaculture sector; (ii) to encourage and promote a resilient aquaculture sector; (iii) to improve and strengthen livelihood and economic growth tbrough aquaculture; (iv) to promote and strengthen awareness, partnership, collaboration and networking in aquaculture; (v) to strengthen capacity and capability in the aquaculture sector; and (vi) to promote gender equity and social inclusion in aquaculture.
The Plan provides a comprehensive and integrated framework for advancing a sustainable and resilient aquaculture sector by strengthening governance, regulatory clarity, and institutional coordination, while improving licensing, compliance, monitoring, and data management systems. It emphasizes building technical capacity, research, and extension services, alongside enhancing biosecurity and aquatic health management to safeguard production systems. It further promotes environmentally responsible aquaculture through ecosystem‑based approaches, spatial planning, and climate‑resilient practices, while supporting the development and expansion of priority commodities, such as pearls, seaweeds, and shellfish, and production systems. In parallel, it focuses on improving access to finance, investment, infrastructure, and inputs, strengthening value chains, product quality, and market access, and encouraging private sector participation and innovation. The Plan also underscores the importance of community engagement, inclusive participation, and partnerships, including gender and youth participation in trainings, decision-making and planning processes, as well as public awareness and stakeholder collaboration. This Plan is designed to align aquaculture development with national priorities for food security, economic diversification, and environmental sustainability, ensuring a coordinated and effective pathway for sector growth and long‑term resilience.