Tonga Launches IMO-Compliant Maritime Single Window and Integrated Port Digital Systems
Expired
PRESS RELEASE
13 August, 2026
TONGA LAUNCHES IMO-COMPLIANT MARITIME SINGLE WINDOW AND INTEGRATED PORT DIGITAL SYSTEMS
Major milestone strengthens Tonga’s maritime gateway and advances digital transformation across the Pacific
Ports Authority, Tonga (PAT) officially launched its new Maritime Single Window (MSW) and integrated port digital systems on 11 August 2026, marking one of the most significant digital transformation initiatives undertaken by Ports Authority Tonga and Tonga’s maritime sector.
The launch, held under the theme “Transforming Tonga’s Maritime Gateway through Digital Innovation,” was officiated by the Honourable Siaosi ‘Ofa ki Vahafolau Sovaleni, Minister for Public Enterprises, as Guest of Honour.
The event brought together Members of the Ports Authority Tonga Board of Directors, senior Government representatives, members of the Diplomatic Corps, development partners, shipping lines, local ferry operators and other key maritime and port stakeholders. The High Commissioners of New Zealand, His Excellency Brody Sinclair, Her Excellency Jane Livesey, Acting High Commissioner of Australia, Mr Jesse Porter, Political & Economic Chief, US Embassy and Ms Rika Uemura, JICA Residence Representative were also among the distinguished guests, together with representatives from key Government agencies, including the Ministry of Health.
Mr. Tevita Kaitu’u Fotu, Director of Ports Authority Tonga Board, delivered the Welcome Address, while the Acting Director of Tonga’s Maritime Administration Office, Mrs. Meliame Tu’alau, delivered a Special Address, highlighting the regulatory and national importance of the initiative. The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Mr. Halloween Kisina, Chief Financial Officer of Ports Authority Tonga.
The launch was also attended by the senior leadership team of Portall Infosystems Pvt. Ltd. of India, PAT’s technology partner, including Mr. Neeraj Aggarwala, Chief Executive Officer; Mr. Manoranjan Gupta, Chief Product Officer; and Mr. Krrish Gopal, Director – Maritime Solutions.
PAT acknowledged Portall Infosystems for its partnership, technical expertise and commitment throughout the development and implementation of the project.
A Significant Milestone for Tonga and the Pacific
The centrepiece of the initiative is Tonga’s implementation of an IMO-compliant Maritime Single Window, providing a single electronic gateway for the submission and exchange of information required for maritime formalities.
From 1 January 2024, the use of Maritime Single Windows became mandatory for IMO Member States under the Facilitation Convention.
Based on information available to Ports Authority Tonga and its engagement with the IMO, Tonga is the first Pacific Island country to have implemented an IMO-compliant Maritime Single Window in support of the IMO FAL Convention requirements.
The achievement demonstrates that a small island developing state can adopt international maritime standards and implement sophisticated digital solutions through strong leadership, collaboration and commitment.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has also recognised Tonga’s progress in developing and implementing its Maritime Single Window and encouraged Tonga to document and share its experience with other Member States.
Minister Highlights Tonga’s Achievement
As stated by the Honourable Minister for Public Enterprises, Hon Siaosi ‘Ofa ki Vahafolau Sovaleni, during his keynote address:
“Tonga's progress in implementing the Maritime Single Window in support of the IMO requirements is an achievement of which we can be proud.
Tonga is believed to be the first Pacific Island country to reach this milestone, and the IMO has recognised our progress as remarkably rapid and a significant achievement.
For a small island developing state, this sends an important message. We may be small in population and resources, but we can be ambitious in our standards, adopt international best practice, embrace technology and develop solutions that respond to the particular circumstances of our islands while remaining connected to international systems and standards.”
The Integrated Digital Ecosystem
The initiative brings together four key systems:
- Maritime Single Window (MSW) – providing a single electronic gateway for regulatory information required by Government agencies.
- Terminal Operating System (TOS) – supporting container, cargo and terminal operations.
- Port Operating System (POS) – supporting marine services, berth allocation and day-to-day port operations.
- Port Community System (PCS) – connecting shipping lines, agents, Government agencies, importers, exporters and other members of the port community.
The value of the initiative lies not only in the individual systems, but in their integration into a single digital ecosystem that enables information to move more efficiently between Government, industry and the wider port community.
The systems are designed to reduce duplication and manual processing, improve information accuracy and visibility, strengthen coordination, support faster decision-making and enhance the efficiency and transparency of port services.
A National and Regional Investment
The successful implementation has involved collaboration between Ports Authority Tonga, Government agencies, maritime stakeholders, shipping lines, local ferry operators and Portall Infosystems. While PAT manages the Port of Nuku’alofa, the digital platform has been designed with the capacity to support activities associated with Vava’u, Ha’apai, ‘Eua and the Niuas, including both domestic and international operations.
The initiative also complements the recent physical modernisation of Tonga’s maritime gateway through the upgrade of the Queen Salote International Wharf, supported by the Asian Development Bank and the Australian Government through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the RELEASE Pacific. Together, modern physical infrastructure and digital infrastructure provide Tonga with Monday, 11 November 2024 stronger foundations for a more efficient, resilient and competitive maritime gateway.
The new digital capability also provides a foundation for Tonga to explore future opportunities as shipping patterns and supply chains evolve across the Pacific, including potential opportunities in logistics, regional connectivity and transshipment, subject to further assessment and investment.
Looking Ahead
Speaking at the launch, PAT Chief Executive Officer Mr. ‘Alo-ki-hakau Maileseni said the achievement represented more than the introduction of new technology.
“Digital transformation is not simply about purchasing a system. It is about changing the way we work, improving our processes, strengthening our people and building a maritime gateway that is ready for the future.”
Mr. Maileseni said the true measure of the initiative would be the benefits experienced by the people and businesses that depend on Tonga’s maritime gateway, including faster and more predictable processes, better information, stronger coordination, greater transparency, lower administrative burdens and stronger compliance with international standards.
Ports Authority Tonga will continue to improve its systems, strengthen cybersecurity and resilience, invest in its people and enhance service delivery.
The Authority will also continue working with regional and international partners, including the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Pacific Community (SPC), International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) and Association of Pacific Ports (APP), to support knowledge-sharing and continued maritime digital transformation across the Pacific.
The launch marks an important new chapter for Tonga’s maritime gateway and reinforces the Kingdom’s commitment to ensuring that its maritime sector remains safe, efficient, resilient, competitive and connected.
ENDS
About Ports Authority Tonga
Ports Authority Tonga (PAT) is a public enterprise wholly owned by the Government of the Kingdom of Tonga. PAT is responsible for the management and operation of the Port of Nuku’alofa, Tonga’s principal international maritime gateway.
PAT supports Tonga’s economic development, international trade, tourism and maritime connectivity through the provision of safe, efficient and sustainable port services.
The Authority is committed to modernising Tonga’s maritime gateway, strengthening operational efficiency, improving customer service and adopting international best practices and digital technologies to ensure that Tonga’s port services are prepared for the future.
Download the Press Release by Click on the link: RESS RELEASE: Tonga Launches IMO-Compliant Maritime Single Window and Integrated Port Digital Systems
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PORTS AUTHORITY, TONGA CEO MR. ’ALO-KI-HAKAU MAILESENI REAPPOINTED FOR SECOND FOUR-YEAR TERM
Expired
RESS RELEASE
PORTS AUTHORITY, TONGA CEO MR. ’ALO-KI-HAKAU MAILESENI
REAPPOINTED FOR SECOND FOUR-YEAR TERM
NUKU’ALOFA, TONGA
13 AUGUST 2026
The Board of Directors of Ports Authority Tonga (PAT) is pleased to announce the reappointment of Mr. ‘Alo-ki-hakau Maileseni of Nomuka, Ha’apai, and Kolomotu’a, Tongatapu, as Chief Executive Officer for a second four-year term, effective from 4 August 2026 to 3 August 2030.
The Board’s decision reflects its confidence in Mr. Maileseni’s leadership and recognises the significant progress and achievements made by the Authority during his first term. Since his appointment as Chief Executive Officer in 2022, Ports Authority, Tonga has strengthened its corporate governance, improved operational performance, enhanced financial sustainability, and advanced major infrastructure and digital transformation initiatives.
Under Mr. Maileseni’s leadership, the Authority has achieved several important strategic milestones, including the commissioning of the upgraded Queen Salote International Wharf, implementation of the Maritime Single Window in compliance with International Maritime Organization (IMO) requirements, expansion of port security and surveillance systems, advancement of green port initiatives, and continued investment in the modernisation of Tonga’s port infrastructure and services.
Chairman of the Board, Dr. Sione Ngongo Kioa, said the reappointment demonstrates the Board’s confidence in Mr. Maileseni’s ability to lead the Authority through its next phase of development.
“The Board is delighted to reappoint Mr. Maileseni for a second term as Chief Executive Officer. During his first term, he has demonstrated strong leadership, sound financial management, and a clear strategic vision for the future of Ports Authority Tonga. His commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and good governance has positioned the Authority well to meet the evolving needs of Tonga’s maritime sector. The Board looks forward to continuing to work closely with him as the Authority advances its strategic objectives.”
In accepting his reappointment, Mr. Maileseni expressed his gratitude to the Board for its continued confidence and acknowledged the support of the Government of Tonga, the Ministry of Public Enterprises, the Board of Directors, management and employees of Ports Authority Tonga, customers, development partners, and other stakeholders.
“I am deeply honoured by the Board’s decision to reappoint me as Chief Executive Officer. This reappointment is a reflection of the collective efforts and dedication of our Board, management and staff, together with the invaluable support of our stakeholders and partners. I remain committed to leading Ports Authority Tonga with integrity, professionalism and innovation as we continue to strengthen our ports, improve service delivery, embrace digital transformation, and advance our vision of becoming a safe, efficient, sustainable and internationally recognised port authority that supports Tonga’s economic growth and regional connectivity.”
As Ports Authority Tonga enters its next phase of development, the Board remains committed to ensuring that the Authority continues to deliver safe, reliable, efficient and sustainable port services that facilitate trade, support national development, strengthen regional connectivity, and contribute to the prosperity of the Kingdom of Tonga.
Mr. Maileseni’s second four-year term commenced on 4 August 2026 and will conclude on 3 August 2030.
PRESS RELEASE ENDS.
Press Release to Download: PORTS AUTHORITY, TONGA CEO MR. ’ALO-KI-HAKAU MAILESENI REAPPOINTED FOR SECOND FOUR-YEAR TERM
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Successful Completion of Final Survey for MV Fangaʻilifuka Post Defect Liability Period
ExpiredPRESS RELEASE: Nuku’alofa, Tonga — 18 July 2025
Ports Authority Tonga (PAT) is pleased to announce the successful completion of the final inspection survey of MV Fangaʻilifuka, officially marking the end of its one-year Defect Liability Period.
The inspection was carried out this week by a visiting delegation from Japan led by Mr. Yoshio Isozaki from the Shipbuilding Research Centre of Japan and Mr. Kazuaki Harada from Kanematsu Corporation, alongside three technical experts:
- Mr. Shusaku Watanabe, ODO Shipbuilding Co. Ltd
- Two engineers from IHI Power Systems Co., Ltd, specialists in propulsion systems.
The team conducted a comprehensive onboard assessment of the MV Fangaʻilifuka, a 499-GT inter-island vessel which was commissioned by His Majesty King Tupou VI in July 2024 and handed over to PAT under a USD $10 million grant from the Government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The survey concluded with no major defects found. A minor issue related to the vessel’s freshwater pump was identified during the inspection but was immediately rectified by the Japanese engineers. The vessel has otherwise remained in excellent operational condition throughout its first year of service.
A formal sign-off ceremony was held this morning at the PAT Head Office in Nuku’alofa. In attendance were the CEO of Ports Authority Tonga, Mr. ʻAlo ki hakau Maileseni; General Manager – Marine Services & Port Master, Captain Hakaumotu Fakapelea; the Japanese technical team; and senior members of PAT.
According to the CEO, Mr. ʻAlo Maileseni, the MV Fangaʻilifuka has significantly contributed to PAT’s core objectives of enhancing operational efficiency, boosting productivity, and ensuring the delivery of quality and safe services to customers—particularly in the outer islands.
On behalf of the Chairman of the Board, Management, and Staff of Ports Authority Tonga, we would like to once again express our sincere gratitude to the Government of Japan and JICA for their continued support and commitment to improving maritime transport in the Kingdom.
The final components of this generous grant are scheduled to arrive in Tonga next month, including a mooring boat, diver suits, an underwater camera, and a Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) system to enhance PAT’s capability to monitor and manage vessel movements within Tongan waters—further reinforcing maritime safety, environmental protection, and efficient port operations.
For further information, please contact:
Ports Authority Tonga
Phone: +676 23-168 | Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Website: https://www.portsauthoritytonga.com
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Ports Authority Tonga Invests in New Street Sweeper to Support Green Ports Initiatives
ExpiredIssued: 3rd September 2025 - Ports Authority Tonga (PAT) has taken another significant step forward in its Green Ports initiatives with the procurement of a new Dulevo 850 Environmental Sweeper from NZ Supplies Ltd, at a total investment of TOP $223,366.21 under PAT’s FY2024/25 Capital Expenditure program. The new sweeper will be used to maintain cleanliness and environmental standards across PAT’s operational areas, particularly at the Taufa’ahau Tupou IV Domestic Wharf (TTIVDW) and the Queen Salote International Wharf (QSIW) following recent upgrades.
Although diesel-powered, the Dulevo 850 EU6 – Tier 4 model is fully compliant with the latest Euro 6 (European) and Tier 4 (U.S.) emission standards. These standards are designed to minimize harmful nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), particulate matter (PM), and other emissions, while also meeting legislative requirements for gaseous and noise emissions. This makes the sweeper environmentally safe and consistent with PAT’s sustainability goals.
As part of the supply contract, onsite training was delivered by two technical experts from NZ Supplies Ltd, who visited Tonga last week to conduct a four-day program (Tuesday–Friday) for both PAT operators and mechanics.
On 1 September 2025, PAT officially commissioned the new sweeper. The occasion was marked with a blessing ceremony conducted by Father ‘Epeli Manisela of the Catholic Church of Ma’ufanga, who prayed for the safe use of the equipment and those who will operate and maintain it.
The event was attended by PAT’s Executive Management- ‘Alo Maileseni, Halloween Kisina and Mele Lavemaau, including the GM Administration- Lu’isa Lapao’o and the Manager Operations – International Wharf- Finau Mohu, who was also trained as an operator.
Chief Executive Officer of PAT, Mr. ‘Alo-ki-hakau Maileseni, stated:
“This investment demonstrates PAT’s ongoing commitment to modernizing our port facilities while upholding our Green Ports initiatives. The new sweeper will not only enhance cleanliness and safety at our wharves but also ensure compliance with strict international environmental standards.”
This investment was fully funded from PAT’s own cash flow, reaffirming the Authority’s financial strength and commitment to sustainable development.
For further information, please contact:
Ports Authority Tonga
Phone: +676 23-168 | Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Website: https://www.portsauthoritytonga.com
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