Hihifo Food expands export capacity with new processing equipment
A Tongan-owned agribusiness is marking a new chapter with the launch of upgraded agri-food processing equipment—part of a co-investment partnership with the Australia and New Zealand-funded Pacific Horticultural and Agricultural Market Access Plus (PHAMA Plus) program.
Hihifo Food, a family-run company based in Ha’avakatolo, Tongatapu, exports frozen cassava, yam and taro to wholesale buyers in Sydney, Australia. With a largely female workforce and a strong connection to farming communities across Tonga, the business plays a key role in supporting livelihoods and meeting growing market demand.
The partnership with PHAMA Plus has enabled the business to upgrade its operations with a new food washing machine, forklift, cleaning bins, container ramp, scale, trolleys, staff uniforms, and a 220KVA diesel generator. These investments will ease the labour burden, reduce wastage, and help the company better manage disruptions to electricity supply—particularly during periods of peak export activity.
“This investment will help us deliver more consistently, reduce damage from power cuts, and support the hard work of our staff—most of whom are women,” said Mr Soane Tupou, Owner of Hihifo Food.
His Excellency Brek Batley, Australian High Commissioner to Tonga, said the partnership reflects our joint commitment to fostering inclusive, resilient, and market-ready agribusinesses across the Pacific.
This is a practical example of how targeted investment can strengthen Tonga’s export capability.
The upgraded equipment is expected to help Hihifo Food increase its export volumes, improve processing hygiene and efficiency, and contribute to a more robust root crop value chain.
For more information please contact: Tevita Lautaha, Country Manager – Tonga on t.lautaha@phamaplus.com.au or Zafiya Shamim, Senior Communications Officer, PHAMA Plus z.shamim@phamaplus.com.au