The Food Price Index (FPI) is a critical component of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which serves as a primary measure of inflation. For food-importing nations such as Tonga, the FPI provides essential insights into economic vulnerability, informs policy development, and supports initiatives aimed at ensuring food security and maintaining macroeconomic stability.
The FPI is derived from the CPI basket, specifically from PACCOICOP Division 1: Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages. This division carries the highest weight within the CPI at 42.6%, underscoring its significance in inflation monitoring.
The FPI is influenced by nine food commodity groups, with the following three being the most substantial contributors:
- Live animals, meat, and other parts of slaughtered land animals – This group holds the highest weight at 11.4%, encompassing products such as chuck beef, pork, and chicken.
- Vegetables, tubers, plantains, cooking bananas, and pulses – Contributing 7.9%, this group includes items like taro leaves, tapioca, and tomatoes.
- Cereals and cereal products – Accounting for 6.4%, this category covers staple foods such as bread, noodles, and plain flour.
Of the total 42.6% weighting assigned to the FPI, imported food accounts for 25.1%, while locally produced food comprises 17.5%. This distribution highlights Tonga’s substantial dependence on imported food products. Consequently, fluctuations in global food prices have a direct impact on the cost of living.
Base Period
The base period for the FPI aligns with the CPI base year of 2021, meaning the index is compared to prices from that year. Price data is collected through market surveys from various outlets across Tongatapu and Vava’u.
Food Price Index Report 2025
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