United States. Central Intelligence Agency

“ Economy Tonga Economy - overview: Tonga, a small, open, South Pacific island economy, has a narrow export base in agricultural goods. Squash, coconuts, bananas, and vanilla beans are the main crops, and agricultural exports make up two-thirds of total exports. The country must import a high proportion of its food, mainly from New Zealand. Tourism is the second-largest source of hard currency earnings following remittances. The country remains dependent on external aid and remittances from Tongan communities overseas to offset its trade deficit. ”

“ The government is emphasizing the development of the private sector, especially the encouragement of investment, and is committing increased funds for health and education. Tonga has a reasonably sound basic infrastructure and well-developed social services. High unemployment among the young and the continuing upturn in inflation are major issues facing the government. ”

“ Population below poverty line: NA Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA Inflation rate (consumer prices) : 10.3% (2002 est.) Labor force: 33,910 (1996) Labor force - by occupation: agriculture 65% (1997 est.) ”