The leading provider of microfinance in Tonga
Following the success of SPBD Samoa, we successfully launched our first replication in the Kingdom of Tonga in 2009. SPBD Tonga reached financial sustainability within 18 months of inception and has disbursed more than US $87,000,000 in loans to hard-working women. SPBD operates on the four major islands/islands groups of Tonga.
Why Tonga?
Only 30% of Tongan women are employed and 40% of them are underemployed being engaged in subsistence farming, fishing, and handicrafts. 23% of the population lives below the poverty line. Opportunities for salaried employment are scarce.
SPBD Tonga by the numbers
US $87.3M
Value of loans disbursed
since inception
75,700
Number of loans made to
hard-working women since inception
10,400
Number of
savings accounts
4,800
Number of
loans outstanding
“I am very thrilled that SPBD has recognized my hard work and commitment to my business. I am very proud to be one of the many who has succeeded in using these loans to further my business.”
Pasiano, Weaver, Tonga
About Tonga
Tonga went through a period of violent civil unrest in 2006 but has since then enjoyed political stability. GDP per capita is about USD 3,700. Remittances form 24% of GDP and 82% of households benefit from them. Four private commercial banks are active in the country: BSP (Bank of South Pacific), ANZ, Malaysian Banking Finance (MBf Bank) and the Tonga Development Bank (TDB).
Latest News
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By Temalesi Vono At just 31, Rabino Taratai of Rabi Island has been named the 2026 Businesswoman of the Year, recognising her determination and 10 years of building a business that supports her family and serves communities. Based in Savusavu, Taratai received the award at the 16th SPBD Foundation Day and Businesswoman of the Year [...]
SPBD Awards recognise Women Entrepreneurs in Solomon Islands
By Andrianah Kole The South Pacific Business Development (SPBD) Network hosted its annual Businesswoman Awards 2026 in Honiara on Friday, recognising the achievements and resilience of women entrepreneurs across Solomon Islands. The awards celebrated the success of women-owned businesses and highlighted the contribution of women’s economic empowerment to family livelihoods, stronger communities and national economic [...]
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