Tonga has been preparing to ratify the convention since 2015 but last year 'Akilisi Pohiva said the Government was stepping back from ratification after opponents protested that it could open the way for same-sex marriage and abortion.
Mr Pohiva said local women's groups would be asked to carry out public consultations again.
He said the subject had divided the nation.
"We made it clear that some of the clauses in regards to CEDAW are well taken by government and there are a few we do not think that they are appropriate," he said.
