For generations, Tongan households have bought produce in bundles at the roadside and markets. That system is now changing, with the government directing vendors to sell fruits and vegetables by the kilogram — a move officials say will make pricing fairer and healthier choices more affordable.

The Ministry’s Consumer and Fair Trade Division confirmed the new policy comes under the Price and Wage Control Actand the Weights and Measures Act. Both ensure regulated goods are sold within set price limits and that scales used in the marketplace are properly registered and calibrated.

Officials said the change was necessary after repeated complaints from the public. “Despite government reducing duties and taxes to make imported fruits and vegetables more affordable, we are still receiving complaints of increasing prices given that businesses are still selling in packets and not per kilo,” the ministry stated.

To support small and medium vendors, particularly those in markets and along the roadside, Tonga Health has supplied a first batch of 25 calibrated scales, with more to arrive. Demonstrations were also given to business owners on how to price and operate the equipment.