Participants at Speaker’s Debate Vote Overwhelmingly Against Seabed Mining

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The Legislative Assembly of Tonga held its first Speaker’s Debate of the year last night, drawing close to 100 attendees to the Chamber for a robust and timely discussion on the topic: “Seabed Mining: The Good and the Bad.” Among those present were members of the public, civil society, academia, government representatives, and the Australian High Commissioner to Tonga, H.E. Mr. Brek Batley.

The evening featured expert presentations from a distinguished panel of local and international specialists, who examined seabed mining from legal, environmental, industrial, and policy perspectives:

• Victor Vescovo – Venture capitalist in heavy industry and metal recycling
• Lori Osmundsen – International environmental lawyer
• Rose Lesley Kautoke – Tongan maritime law expert with a focus on deep-sea mining
• Taniela Kula – CEO, Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources
• Muimui Napa’a Lilo – Country Manager, Tonga Offshore Mining Ltd., a subsidiary of The Metals Company operating in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone

The experts discussed the economic potential of seabed mining, highlighting Tonga’s early involvement and historical claims, including partnerships dating back to 2011. Presentations also raised key concerns about legal frameworks, environmental protections, and the activities of The Metals Company (TMOL), with particular focus on the potential long-term impacts on marine ecosystems and biodiversity.

Following the presentations, a formal debate was held between two Members of Parliament:

• Hon. Viliami Uasike Latu, speaking in support of seabed mining, emphasized its potential to contribute to Tonga’s economic development. He stressed that all activities to date have complied with both domestic laws and international legal obligations. Hon. Latu also clarified that the extraction of nodules has not yet occurred and that operations remain in the exploratory phase.
• Hon. Johnny Grattan Vaea Taione, opposing seabed mining, cautioned against the potentially irreversible environmental damage it could cause. He underscored the need for greater sustainability and a precautionary approach to resource development.

The event concluded with a public Q&A session, during which attendees were invited to share their views and pose questions to the speakers and MPs. A majority of public comments voiced strong opposition to seabed mining. Youth participants in particular called for responsible stewardship, stating they are the future generation who would be most affected by today’s decisions. Others expressed support for a moratorium on seabed mining and urged decision-makers to engage in more public dialogue and research before moving forward.

To close the evening, Lord Speaker Fakafanua conducted an indicative vote among the audience. Of those present, only 8 voted in favor of seabed mining, while 56 voted against, with several abstentions.
This highlights the significance of the Speaker’s Debate as a national platform for inclusive dialogue and meaningful civic engagement on pressing issues of national importance.