Rapid market assessment for Tsunami affected population in the island of Tongatapu, Kingdom of Tonga

This report presents the findings of a rapid market assessment conducted in Tongatapu after the January 2022 Hunga Tonga–Hunga Haʻapai volcanic eruption and tsunami. The disaster affected most of Tonga’s population through ashfall, inundation, displacement, and loss of livelihoods, particularly in low-lying western districts of Tongatapu. The assessment was undertaken to understand post-disaster market conditions and guide appropriate humanitarian and early recovery interventions.

Using interviews with community members, shop owners, wholesale traders, money transfer agents, and NGOs, the assessment examines market access, availability of essential goods, transport constraints, and functionality of financial services. Findings show that markets in Tongatapu were physically accessible and largely restocked within weeks, despite temporary disruptions from tsunami damage, communication blackouts, and COVID-19 lockdowns. Money transfer systems—critical due to high reliance on remittances—were operational, although affected by cash shortages, documentation loss, and movement restrictions.

The report highlights that while markets have largely recovered, livelihoods—especially agriculture, fisheries, handicrafts, and small retail businesses—remain under pressure due to ash contamination, loss of tools, rising prices, and reduced income opportunities. It concludes that cash-based assistance is feasible and appropriate, recommending a combination of cash for food and cash for livelihoods to support household needs and accelerate economic recovery, particularly for tsunami-affected and displaced communities.