Imports backup causes strain on available goods for Tongans

15 Dec Imports backup causes strain on available goods for Tongans

2022/02/11 – COVID-19 has disrupted the daily lives of many around the world and continues to have irreparable damages to small businesses. It isn’t uncommon for imports to be intermittent in Tonga however, the pandemic has placed further delays on these infrequent shipping routes.

As stocks run low in the stores, many of the imported goods and care packages sent from Tongan families abroad sit in wait at the wharf. The lockdown has seen to the short staff of the Customs officers and during many of the press conferences held by the government Prime Minister Hon. Hu’akavameiliku has reported that they are doing their best to get these stocks moving out.

A ship that has sent aid from families abroad has docked and they have asked District and Town Officers to assist with the delivery of these shipments to families.

However, local businesses have felt the strain of the lockdown and the sluggish release of imports. While there have been talks of government assistance during a press conference the Prime Minister had said that while the COVID assistance is great they need to be wise about allocating these resources.

Senior citizens have sought out their retirement fund for support after the eruption, many still seek this aid today to buoy themselves during lockdown.

The lockdown will continue for two weeks with Tuesdays and Fridays opening up for citizens to do their shopping as well as medical services.