Tonga's population has remained stable at under 100,000 for the past two decades due to substantial out-migration. Tonga's social indicators reflect high investment in human resources and the large contribution of remittances and external assistance to the domestic economy. Agricultural production dominates the economy with exports being the highest for small Pacific island countries. Squash provides more than half of Tonga's exports by value. Other agricultural goods, fish and manufactured products make up the balance.
Tourism makes a small but growing contribution to the economy.
74 yrs Expend. Tongans benefit from political stability and strong cultural and community ties. The remittance economy of Tonga has contributed to a relatively high standard of living. This external income has largely been channelled towards expenditure for social services, domestic consumption and infrastructure. Emigration has also helped reduce unemployment.