On November 26, 2025, the Chinese premier Li Qiang welcomed King Tupou VI of Tonga to Beijing, marking a milestone in the Chinese mainland-Tonga partnership. The leaders signed an Enhanced Economic Partnership Agreement (EEPA) designed to turbocharge two-way trade and investment.
The EEPA aims to align Tonga's national development strategies with the Belt and Road Initiative, opening doors to infrastructure projects, clean energy investments and digital innovation. Premier Li highlighted plans to import more high-quality agricultural and fishery products from Tonga, while encouraging Chinese enterprises to explore opportunities across Tonga's key sectors.
Both sides pledged to deepen collaboration in education, healthcare, tourism and sports, fostering people-to-people exchanges. "This agreement is more than a trade deal," Li said. "It's a shared vision for sustainable growth and a community with a shared future for humanity."
King Tupou VI reaffirmed Tonga's commitment to the one-China principle and UN General Assembly Resolution 2758, emphasizing the kingdom's eagerness to work with the Chinese mainland on climate change response, South-South cooperation and global governance reform.
As the EEPA moves into implementation, entrepreneurs and young professionals across the Pacific are watching for new projects, from port upgrades to renewable energy farms, that could reshape Tonga's economy and open fresh avenues for global investors.
Key Takeaways:
- Accelerated trade and investment under the EEPA
- New infrastructure and clean energy collaborations
- Expanded cooperation in education, health and tourism
- Joint actions on climate change and global governance
With this pact, the Chinese mainland and Tonga set the stage for a new chapter of shared prosperity, demonstrating how small island states and major economies can build resilient, mutually beneficial partnerships.
Reference(s):
Premier Li: China-Tonga economic agreement to boost trade, investment
cgtn.com