Tonga's Government has announced a financial recovery package of $US9,780,000 to help revive the country's economy.
Already struggling with the impacts of the pandemic and previous national disasters the kingdom took another double hit early this year with the volcanic eruption and tsunami followed by an outbreak of Covid-19.
More than half of the government's recovery package comes in the form of development loans totalling $US5 million (USD).
Eligible, businesses in the Agriculture, Fisheries, and Tourism sectors are being offered up to $US22,230 per annum whilst retailers and wholesalers can access up to $US88,900 per annum.
Tonga Chamber of Commerce President Sam Vea says that many businesses wanted stronger assistance from the Government such as a cash injections, subsidies on bank loans and a reduction on utility costs.
He told RNZ Pacific reporter Finau Fonua Tongan businesses have been put through the wringer.
Photo: RNZI / Koro Vaka'uta
