The Tonga Statistics Department is responsible for the collection, analysis, and dissemination of essential data to support national planning and policy-making. Established under the Statistics Act, the department plays a critical role in providing accurate and timely statistics to both the government and the public, which are vital for informed decision-making.

The Department’s work aligns with the Tonga Strategic Development Framework II (TSDF II) by providing data crucial for monitoring and evaluating the nation’s progress toward economic growth, infrastructure development, and social goals. Through its management of the national census, economic surveys, and social statistics, the Department contributes directly to the development of the Tongan economy by supporting sectors such as tourism, foreign investment, and regional cooperation.

Accurate statistics are especially important for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like Tonga. Given the unique challenges SIDS face, such as vulnerability to natural disasters, limited resources, and reliance on foreign aid and investment, reliable data enables the government to make evidence-based decisions. This information also ensures Tonga can effectively engage in regional cooperation, attract foreign investment, and access international aid programs. Furthermore, statistics on internet and mobile access are crucial for understanding and improving connectivity across the islands, enhancing communication, education, and economic opportunities.

The Tonga Statistics Department provides public access to the latest national census information through its website and The Pacific Community’s Statistics for Development Division page. This allows users to view and download comprehensive census reports, which include critical information about population size, household demographics, geographic distribution, and living conditions. It also shares the meta-data for these reports. So far, access to the Tonga Population and Housing Census datasets are not made publicly available. Only under very specific reasons will the Government Statistician (GS) authorise access to these datasets in accordance with the provisions of the Tonga Statistics Act 2015.

How to request access to Census dataset: To access census dataset, one must gain approval from the Government Statistician, and this is the only official method for requesting census datasets. To access tables and other processed information, one can directly contact the main office or use the Data Request form.

The Department offers custom statistical reports for individuals, businesses, government agencies, and researchers who need tailored data beyond what is publicly available. These reports can provide insights into specific areas like economic performance, labour market statistics, population trends, and more.

Types of Reports Available:

• Economic Data: GDP growth, sector-specific performance, and trade balances.
• Population and Demographics: Trends in population growth, migration, and age group distributions.
• Labour Market: Employment statistics, industry-specific workforce data, and unemployment rates.

You can request a custom report through the Department’s Online Request System. Provide details such as the type of data, time period, geographic scope, and format (Excel, PDF). After submitting the request, you will receive a confirmation email and an estimated timeline for delivery. Custom reports may incur a fee, and users will be notified of any applicable costs before the report is generated.

The Tonga Statistics Department website is the Department’s comprehensive platform for accessing a wide range of economic, social, and environmental statistics. This portal provides regularly updated datasets that help businesses, policymakers, and researchers make informed decisions based on current trends. For more details or to access any of these services, please visit the Tonga Statistics Department website.

The Department of Statistics offers an easy-to-navigate Online Document Library where users can download public datasets and reports on a variety of topics, including economic performance, population trends, environmental data, and more. The library is designed for use by students, researchers, business owners, investors, and the general public, ensuring quick access to up-to-date statistical information. The Document Library is continuously updated with the latest datasets, making it a reliable resource for anyone needing in-depth information about Tonga’s economic and social landscape.

The Department of Statistics will soon post all new vacancies through the Tonga Network Employment, making it easier for citizens to apply for government positions. This is the primary place for anyone interested in public service roles to find new opportunities. The portal will provide access to job listings across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies in Tonga’s government, as well as the private sector. While job postings may also appear on the specific organization’s own websites or their official Facebook page, it is highly recommended to check the Vacancy Portal.

• Statistics Act 2015 defines the scope and responsibilities of the Tonga Statistics Department, ensuring the collection, analysis, and dissemination of vital data for Tonga.

• Census Act 2020 mandates regular national censuses, guiding how population and household data are collected and reported.