Half-Day Workshop Equips Custom Officials and Custom Brokers on HCFC/HFC Refrigerants Compliance

Nukuálofa, 27 February 2026 – The Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications (MEIDECC), through its Department of Climate Change, in partnership with His Majesty’s Customs – Border Control Division, convened a half‑day training workshop today at the Feáo moe Ngalu Building in Nukuálofa.

The training focused on enhancing the technical capacity of Customs officials and licensed customs brokers in the proper declaration of HCFC/HFC refrigerants. These substances, while widely used in refrigeration and air conditioning, are potent greenhouse gases that contribute significantly to global warming if mismanaged. By strengthening border enforcement and ensuring accurate declaration practices, Tonga is advancing its national efforts to mitigate climate change and uphold its obligations under the Montreal Protocol and the Kigali Amendment.

The workshop was facilitated by Mr. Áloisio Fifita, National Ozone Officer from the Department of Climate Change, and Mr. Sau Niulala, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Border Division. Mr. Fifita highlighted that “Accurate declaration of HCFC and HFC refrigerants is critical because the amounts are reported in kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent. Even a small discrepancy in a few kilograms of refrigerant can translate into thousands of kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions. This underscores the importance of precision at our borders, as every measure directly contributes to Tonga’s efforts in mitigating climate change and protecting the ozone layer.” Mr. Niulala emphasized that “Customs officers and brokers are the first line of defense against illegal imports, and their vigilance directly supports Tonga’s environmental and climate commitments.”

This initiative marks the beginning of a series of capacity‑building programs aimed at strengthening national enforcement measures and promoting sustainable practices. The Government of Tonga, through MEIDECC and HM Customs, reaffirms its commitment to climate change mitigation by ensuring that border control systems are aligned with international standards and contribute to the protection of the Ozone Layer and the environment for present and future generations.

ENDS