Human trafficking remains a serious and persistent problem in Tonga, with the latest U.S. Trafficking in Persons Report warning that the country still falls short of minimum standards to combat exploitation despite recent progress.

Vulnerable young women and girls are increasingly being targeted under the guise of job offers or financial assistance, exposing a hidden trafficking crisis in Tonga, according to information recently obtained by Kaniva News from reliable sources.

It comes after we reported that Philippine authorities recently intercepted two individuals bound for Tonga under the guise of tourism, uncovering a scheme that promised lucrative jobs but led instead to exploitation.

The country’s Bureau of Immigration (BI) stopped the passengers, aged 35 and 31, on October 10 before they could board their flight.

The case highlighted a recurring trafficking modus operandi where victims are recruited with false promises of high-paying work abroad, only to be funnelled into situations of forced labour and severe exploitation.

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In 2010, a Chinese woman residing in Tonga, Lirong Liu, was convicted by the Nukuʻalofa Supreme Court on seven charges, including trafficking in persons, keeping a brothel, and engaging in prostitution.

The court heard that Liu had brought two Chinese women to Tonga under the pretence of restaurant employment.

Upon arrival, they were forced into sex work, primarily servicing Chinese labourers in Tonga.

This case remains a significant legal precedent, underscoring the reality of cross-border trafficking.

Young Woman Lured with Job Offer

A mother and daughter in Nuku’alofa reported that a local woman offered the daughter a job washing dishes and cleaning.

However, upon arriving at the establishment, the girl was directed to a back room and questioned in a way that made her feel unsafe. Realising the job was not as advertised, she escaped, a source familiar with the matter told Kaniva News in August.

The recruiter allegedly pressured her to stay, calling her “foolish” for leaving.

The young woman later disclosed the incident to her mother.

The recruiter denied any wrongdoing, claiming it was a legitimate job offer.

The victim described the encounter as sexually suggestive and predatory.

Girls Seen Leaving Foreign Boats

In another incident, a tip-off was received by phone from a person exercising early in the morning, who reported seeing local Tongan girls disembarking from Chinese fishing boats at the Nukuʻalofa wharf, the source said.

The matter was referred to the police, but the outcome remains unclear.

Tonga Still on Tier 2 Watchlist

The United States Trafficking in Persons Report for 2025 places Tonga on Tier 2, meaning the country does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking but is making significant efforts to do so.

According to the report:

• Tonga identified and provided services to a victim for the first time since 2015.
• Prosecuted a suspected trafficker for the first time since 2011.
• Cooperated with foreign law enforcement, resulting in the arrest of a suspected trafficker.

However, the report warns that Tonga has not convicted a trafficker since 2011 and still fails to:

• Criminalise all forms of trafficking.
• Systematically screen vulnerable populations.
• Provide funding for victim protection services.

U.S. Report 2025: Prioritised Recommendations

The report urges Tonga to take the following actions immediately:

• Fully implement standard operating procedures for proactive identification of trafficking victims among vulnerable groups and train all law enforcement and front-line workers on their use.
• Increase efforts to proactively investigate and prosecute trafficking crimes.
• Amend trafficking laws to criminalise all forms of trafficking in persons in line with international law, including crimes lacking cross-border movement.
• Continue to fund and fully implement the National Action Plan (NAP).
• Provide protections and benefits for victims, such as restitution, legal and medical assistance, and immigration relief.
• Increase efforts to develop and conduct anti-trafficking information and education campaigns.

These cases reveal that trafficking in Tonga is both internal and international, often involving vulnerable women and girls. Experts warn that exploitation frequently occurs under the guise of employment opportunities, making it harder to detect and prevent.

A Hidden Crisis Demanding Action

Authorities and community leaders are calling for:

• Stronger enforcement of anti-trafficking laws
• Public awareness campaigns to educate communities
• Support systems for victims, including safe houses, counselling, and legal aid

Human trafficking is a hidden crisis in Tonga—one that demands urgent attention before more lives are shattered.