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Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and the Jimi District Development Authority (DDA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Friday 11th October in Port Moresby to drive sustainable development and enhance tourism in the Jimi District of Jiwaka Province.
This partnership aims to strengthen the relationship between national, provincial, and district authorities, focusing on building capacity and providing material support for tourism-related projects. Both entities have committed to preserving Jimi District’s rich cultural heritage, while also improving infrastructure and promoting the area as one of the country’s key tourist destinations.
CEO of TPA, Eric Mossman Uvovo, praised the initiative.
“This MOU is important for TPA and Jimi DDA. It shows TPA’s commitment to protecting our people’s culture and promoting sustainable tourism by working with districts at the local level.
Jimi is a district with immense cultural and natural beauty, and we are excited to work together to build it into a tourism product. This partnership will contribute to the national tourism agenda and align with the government’s vision for 2050,” said Uvovo. The MOU is closely aligned with several national development plans, including Vision 2050, the Development Strategic Plan (DSP) 2010-2030, and the National Tourism Policy. It promotes the importance of provincial and district governments in protecting PNG’s cultural and natural heritage, a cornerstone for promoting sustainable tourism in the country.
Both parties have agreed to establish a Joint Milestones Matrix (JMM), which will outline annual targets and budget priorities, ensuring that progress is consistently reviewed and updated. PNGTPA will provide support and work closely with the district to ensure that all initiatives are community-focused and responsive to local needs.
The agreement also highlights the creation of a district-level data collection system, which will help monitor tourism trends, demographics, and cultural resources. By sharing this data, both TPA and the Jimi DDA aim to ensure that future tourism projects are based on accurate information and meet the needs of local communities.
Minister for Mining Member for Jimi Open Electorate & Chairman of Jimi District Development Authority, Hon. Wake Goi highlighted the importance of the MOU agreement for Jimi District.
“Through this landmark partnership, Jimi District will become a key tourism area in Papua New Guinea. Our collaboration with TPA is a start to a new chapter for the people of Jimi. This MOU is an approach that prioritizes environmental protection, and the active involvement of local communities in the decision-making process. I am committed to ensuring that this partnership leads to sustainable growth and more benefits for our district. I am excited for the opportunities this brings, not just for tourism, but for the development of my Jimi District and our future generations,” said Uvovo.◼️
📸 Above image: (L-R) Chairman of Jimi Marita Festival, Gabby Aipanga, Jimi District Administration’s (DDA) Finance Manager, Joseph Kala, Minister for Mining Member for Jimi Open Electorate & Chairman of Jimi District Development Authority, Hon. Wake Goi, Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority’s (TPA) CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo and TPA’s Executive Manager for Partnership & Product Development, Kennewton Kennedy during the official signing of the MOU between TPA and Jimi DDA.
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The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), through its Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI) and in collaboration with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), has published two significant reports from the International Visitor Survey (IVS).
These reports, covering the periods of June 2023 to May 2024 and January to June 2024, provide essential data on visitor preferences, spending patterns, and overall experiences of international tourists to Papua New Guinea (PNG). The insights will support both SPTO and PNGTPA in understanding visitor behavior and improving tourism offerings to meet evolving demands.
PNGTPA Chief Executive Officer Eric Mossman Uvovo praised the collaboration with SPTO and the PTDI team, emphasizing the importance of the reports for shaping PNG’s tourism future.
“These reports offer invaluable insights that will help us enhance the visitor experience and strengthen PNG’s position as a unique tourism destination. We are thankful for SPTO’s ongoing support in delivering these surveys,” Uvovo said.
Key Findings from the reports reveal that business travel is the leading reason for visiting PNG, while cultural attractions such as traditional dances, food preservation techniques, and historic architecture are also key draws. The hospitality and warmth of the local people further elevate the visitor experience.
From June 2023 to May 2024, international visitors contributed an estimated USD 296 million to the PNG economy, highlighting tourism’s role in driving economic growth and supporting local businesses. This represents a 21% increase from the previous period, reflecting a strong recovery in the sector.
However, for the January to June 2024 period, visitors contributed an estimated USD 150 million, a notable 40% increase from the previous reporting period, highlighting the growing appeal of PNG as a travel destination and the continued economic impact of tourism. Visitor satisfaction remained high across both reports, with most respondents rating their experience as either “good” or “excellent.” The positive feedback highlights PNG’s appeal, especially its rich culture and warm hospitality.
SPTO Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker highlighted the value of the PTDI, a research project funded by the New Zealand Government, specifically designed to collect and report on tourism information.
“SPTO’s role as the leading hub for Pacific Tourism Research allows us to drive initiatives like the PTDI, offering crucial insights into tourism trends and impacts. We are committed to providing our member countries, including PNG, with the data necessary for promoting sustainable tourism growth,” Mr Cocker shared.
Since transitioning to SPTO’s management in October 2023, the PTDI continues to be an essential resource for tourism data across the Pacific. 10 Pacific Island nations -Cook Islands, Niue, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Tonga, Kiribati, Timor Leste, and FSM-Yap, are in the PTDI project that is geared towards supporting evidence-based planning and decision-making. It includes the production of a bi-annual International Visitor Survey (IVS), an annual Business Confidence Index (BCI), and an annual Community Attitude Survey (CAS) report.◼️
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The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), in partnership with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), has published its first-ever Community Attitudes Survey (CAS) Report in Papua New Guinea (PNG), providing critical insights into local perspectives on tourism development and its impact on the country. The survey is an initiative of the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI), currently overseen by SPTO.
The survey, conducted from March 25th to May 17th, 2024, targeted PNG citizens and non-citizen residents. The research partnership allowed for responses to be collected via various means, including SMS and promoted through social media, websites, and university partnerships. A total of 2,986 responses were initially received, with 2,684 valid responses analysed after data cleaning. The majority of respondents (70%) were from the National Capital District (NCD), with smaller representations from the Momase, Southern, Highlands, and Islands regions.
Key demographic insights show that most respondents were between the ages of 18-39 years, with 58% being male. 98% of the respondents were PNG citizens, while 2% were non-citizens. 93.8% of respondents agreed that PNG needs more tourists, citing tourism’s potential to boost economic growth, create jobs, and support small businesses. 89.7% believed that tourism positively impacts the local economy, though concerns were raised about environmental degradation and cultural erosion.
Safety and security were major concerns, with many respondents pointing to law and order issues as potential challenges to tourism growth.
Respondents highlighted the importance of cultural exchange facilitated by tourism, while also expressing concern over the commercialisation of traditional cultures and potential environmental damage. The survey called for a focus on sustainable tourism practices to protect PNG’s natural resources and cultural heritage.
To address these findings, the following actions are recommended:
PNG Tourism Promotion Authority Chief Executive Officer Eric Mossman Uvovo shared that these findings were invaluable to the efforts in advancing PNG’s tourism industry.
Mr Mossman Uvovo shared that the recommendations would assist align tourism growth with community interests, ensuring that development benefits all stakeholders while preserving PNG’s unique cultural and environmental assets.
“While there is a strong appetite for more tourists, we need to balance this with safeguarding our environment and cultural heritage. We are committed to taking these recommendations forward to enhance tourism for both our visitors and our people,” Mr Mossman Uvovo said.
SPTO Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker commended the insights provided by the survey, stating, that the findings from the survey played a crucial role in shaping the future of tourism in PNG.
“It’s clear that tourism is not just an economic driver, but a vehicle for cultural exchange and community empowerment. However, the feedback on safety and sustainability highlights areas we must prioritize to ensure that tourism in PNG grows in a way that benefits all stakeholders,” Mr Cocker said
The Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI) is a research project funded by the New Zealand Government. It collects and reports on tourism data from 10 Pacific Island countries, including PNG, supporting evidence-based planning and decision-making. In addition to the CAS, PTDI produces a bi-annual International Visitor Survey (IVS) and an annual Business Confidence Index (BCI), all of which provide invaluable insights for tourism development.◼️
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and the National Airports Corporation (NAC) have stepped up efforts to make travel to PNG smoother and more convenient for international tourists and domestic travel, following a signed MOU earlier this year.
This partnership aims to upgrade airport infrastructure and services, making Papua New Guinea (PNG) a more accessible and attractive destination for global visitors.
The agreement, focused on improving both infrastructure and traveler services, marking it as a significant investment in the tourism sector by enhancing key airport facilities and creating a more streamlined experience for travelers.
Speaking during the 18th University of Papua New Guinea’s Tourism Convention in Port Moresby on Tuesday 1 October 2024, TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, said that the country will continue to see a steady increase in international arrivals, leading to higher tourism-related revenue and broader economic benefits for the country.
“Through our partnership with other organizations like NAC, we are prioritizing the modernization of our airports and improving the overall experience for our visitors. This is crucial to making Papua New Guinea more welcoming and accessible for tourists,” said Uvovo.
During his presentation at the World Tourism Day Conference in Port Moresby, on Friday 27 September 2024, NAC’s Acting Managing Director, Dominic Kaumu, highlighted various aspects of their efforts to enhance visitor experience.
Kaumu said that several areas of airport infrastructure are being upgraded, which include the upgrading terminal facilities, streamlining baggage handling, and updating signage to better guide tourists through the airport. He also said that additional investments are also being made to increase airport capacity, especially to accommodate peak seasons, when tourist traffic is highest.
He also added that the improvements will not only benefit major entry points like Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby but also make regional airports more accessible, particularly those near popular tourist destinations like Milne Bay and Kokoda. NAC’s role in upgrading regional airports will ensure that tourists can easily reach remote and emerging hotspots.
One of the standout features of the agreement is the establishment of TPA’s information centers at key airports. These centers will be a one-stop hub for tourists to access travel information, including maps, brochures, and real-time updates on flight schedules, accommodations, and transportation options.
The first of these centers was launched in 2018 at Jacksons International Airport, providing incoming tourists with essential services and guidance.
The information Centre will work alongside other travel-related organizations located in the international area, offering tourists a full suite of resources. Whether tourists need advice on cultural heritage sites, eco-tourism activities, or safety protocols, the information centre will have trained staff available to assist. Additionally, tourists will be able to access real-time travel advisories, making it easier for them to plan their trips safely and efficiently.
As part of the agreement, TPA will utilize the improved airport infrastructure in its marketing campaigns, promoting PNG as a more accessible and convenient destination. Highlighting PNG’s rich cultural heritage, adventure tourism, and eco-tourism opportunities, TPA has also planned to work on partnerships with airlines and travel agencies to offer package deals that capitalize on the upgraded infrastructure.
Uvovo said that the information centers will play an important role in promoting local tour operators and services, guiding tourists to key destinations across PNG by providing contact details, brochures, and booking services. This initiative is expected to support local businesses and generate more jobs within the tourism sector.
Uvovo also added that TPA has plans to expand these information centers to other airports across PNG, particularly those close to major tourist destinations, such as Rabaul and Milne Bay.
With the combined efforts of TPA and NAC, PNG’s airports are set to become more than just points of entry—they will be integral parts of the visitor experience, making the country’s unique attractions more accessible to the world.◼️
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The CEO of the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), Eric Mossman Uvovo, delivered insightful remarks at the 18th Tourism Convention at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) on Tuesday October 1st in Port Moresby.
Addressing lecturers, students, and distinguished guests, Uvovo emphasized the critical role of government policy in promoting tourism as a key driver of economic growth in Papua New Guinea.
Uvovo highlighted the immense potential of PNG’s tourism sector, describing the country as “a treasure trove of untapped potential,” with its rich cultural diversity and unique ecosystems.
“While tourism currently contributes only 1.2% to the country’s GDP, Uvovo explained that there is significant room for growth. Globally, tourism accounts for 10% of GDP, and PNG aims to increase its share to 3% by next year. With the right investments and policies, the tourism industry could support over 50,000 jobs and make a substantial impact on the local economy,” said Uvovo.
In his presentation, Uvovo outlined some of the key challenges facing the tourism industry in PNG, including law and order issues, limited infrastructure, and a lack of government investment.
He noted that safety concerns and infrastructure limitations have impeded growth in the industry, especially as many of PNG’s top tourist destinations are located in remote areas with poor accessibility.
Uvovo also emphasized that tourism development must be sustainable, with policies that protect the country’s cultural and environmental heritage for future generations.
TPA has signed various collaborative agreements between government agencies as a means to overcoming these challenges.
“Partnerships with the Police to improve tourist safety and with the Ministry of Transport to upgrade airport infrastructure. Recent improvements at Tokua (Rabaul), Lae Airport and Jacksons (Port Moresby) airports are successful examples of policy-driven initiatives,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo also presented recent travel statistics on the number of visitors coming into PNG by air and sea, noting that while international arrivals have grown by 15% since the launch of the National Tourism Strategy 2025, there is still much work to be done.
Minister for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Hon. Belden Namah, delivered remarks at the convention, stressing the importance of tourism for PNG’s future.
“Tourism is vital to Papua New Guinea’s economy and cultural preservation. Under my ministry and through the support of the government, we are working to make tourism a national priority by investing in infrastructure and promoting our incredible cultural and natural assets to the world. Our focus is on ensuring that tourism benefits all Papua New Guineans by creating jobs and promoting sustainable development,” said Minister Namah.◼️
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Minister for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Hon. Belden Namah, officially launched the Tourism Information and Business Incubation Hub, on Friday 27th September, to strengthen Papua New Guinean tourism businesses.
The facility is an initiative of the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), and is located at the Pacific MMI building in downtown Port Moresby and is aimed to stimulate growth, innovation, and sustainability within the nation’s tourism industry.
TPA’s Tourism Business Incubation Hub is designed to provide vital support to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the tourism sector by offering business advisory services, networking opportunities, and financial support.
The hub will also serve as a central point for tourism entrepreneurs to strengthen their operations, develop their products, and access much-needed funding through a Grant and Credit Scheme, which will be rolled out in partnership with the National Development Bank.
The introduction of the facility comes as a much-needed support to the sector following the setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The initiative is part of TPA’s broader Tourism Sector Development Plan (TSDP) (2022-2026) and aims to strengthen local tourism businesses and increase the number of tourism suppliers and producers.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, emphasized the importance of the hub in helping local tourism businesses thrive.
“This hub is a cornerstone in strengthening PNG’s tourism industry, providing essential resources and support to MSMEs.
Our goal is to increase the productivity and sustainability of tourism businesses, encourage profitable and sustainable start-ups, and improve access to tourism information and services,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo also said that the hub will promote proper business practices in the sector.
“Through business capacity development, product development support, and financial advisory services, we aim to create a stronger, more resilient tourism industry that will attract both domestic and international markets,” said Uvovo.
In addition, the Information and Business Incubation Hub includes a Visitor Information Centre, which will serve as a key touchpoint for tourists. This center will offer vital information about local tourism products, provide booking services, and sell local experiences to enhance the visitor experience who are already in the country.
As part of the TSDP, TPA plans to establish more Tourism Hubs across all four regions of PNG—Southern, Highlands, Momase, and New Guinea Islands. These hubs will be supported by a comprehensive MSME Training Program designed to guide businesses from ideation to market readiness.
Speaking at the event, Minister Namah highlighted the importance of the hub in strengthening the tourism industry in the country.
“Tourism is a pot of gold that can be harnessed by everyone, regardless of their education, social status, or gender. Unlike other sectors, tourism has the power to unite us as a people and a nation, while also being economically and environmentally sustainable,” said Hon Namah.
The Minister also said that the initiative aligns with the Marape-Rosso Government’s focus on developing domestic tourism and achieving economic recovery in the post-pandemic era.
“This hub will not only support tourism MSMEs but will also contribute to PNG’s national development by creating jobs, generating income, and increasing tourism’s contribution to our GDP,” said Hon. Namah.
The PGK 15 million project will be funded through allocations for Business Hub development, MSME programs, and the establishment of Tourism Information Centers.
Minister Namah thanked the industry stakeholders, TPA and its partners for their continued support.
“Together, we are unlocking PNG’s tourism potential and empowering our people to lead the growth of this sector, which is vital to our future,” said Hon. Namah.◼️
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More than 150 participants from across the tourism industry attended a World Tourism Day Conference on Friday 27th September at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby to discuss issues affecting the country’s tourism sector.
The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) hosted the conference with the attendance of key government officials, industry leaders, and stakeholders who engaged in constructive dialogue under the theme “Tourism & Peace: Unlocking PNG’s Potential Through Addressing Law and Infrastructure Challenges.”
Special guest speakers included the Honorable Governor of the National Capital District Commission (NCDC), Hon. Powes Parkop, Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Hon. Belden Namah, Chief of Staff of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, Chief Superintendent Kyle Saltmarsh and the Head of the Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management at the University of Papua New Guinea, Dr. Joyce Rayel.
The conference also featured representatives from the aviation sector, airport services, and the Immigration Authority, who spoke on issues affecting their services and how these impact the tourism sector.
The conference was structured into three key sessions that tackled vital issues for the industry which included, Addressing Law & Order: Government & Security Strategies, Aviation, Infrastructure and Tourism Accessibility – Updates and Challenges and Tourism Operators: Overcoming Industry Challenges. Each session focused on exploring solutions to the barriers affecting PNG’s tourism growth, including crime, infrastructure deficits, and accessibility.
During the session on law and order, Chief Superintendent Kyle Saltmarsh emphasized the efforts of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary to work closely with the tourism industry, ensuring safer environments for tourists and operators. His message highlighted the critical role that security plays in promoting PNG as a safe and welcoming destination for both international and domestic visitors.
Aviation and infrastructure were highlighted as essential components of tourism development. Speakers from airports and air service authorities provided updates on ongoing projects to improve the country’s connectivity and address key challenges, including limitations on flight routes and the need for better airport infrastructures to support tourism.
Industry operators also shared their perspectives on overcoming the challenges they face daily.
Owner and Manager of Paiya Tours, Pym Mamindi, spoke passionately about the need for a more positive approach within the industry.
“We have to stop thinking negative. Negative issues that come up we always tend to overthink this and think that it’s us. There are far worse issues happening in the world. Be positive, PNG still remains the best destination in the world,” said Mamindi.
Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Hon. Belden Namah, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to boosting the tourism sector as a pillar for national development.
“Tourism is crucial for Papua New Guinea’s future. It creates jobs, brings in foreign investment, and shows our incredible cultural and natural diversity to the world. I am working to make tourism a priority within the government. We must ensure that tourism is not just a sector but a key part of our national strategy for economic growth and community development,” said Minister Namah.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, emphasized the transformative power of tourism for Papua New Guinea.
“Tourism is not just about showing our beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It is a catalyst for peace, economic growth, and social unity. By addressing our infrastructure and security challenges, we can unlock PNG’s true potential as a global tourism destination, while uplifting the lives of our people and strengthening our communities,” said Uvovo.◼️
Watch the Facebook livestream of the 2024 World Tourism Day Conference in Port Moresby:
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The Best Ever Food Review Show arrived in Papua New Guinea to explore the country’s rich and diverse cuisine on Friday 30th August, Port Moresby.
Papua New Guinea will be featured on the global culinary stage with the popular YouTube show making its first trip to the land of a million different journeys, promising an exciting adventure through both modern and traditional foods.
Hosted by celebrity Sonny Side, also known as Will Sonbuchner, the show with its over 10 million subscribers is renowned for its vibrant and immersive food explorations around the world.
For its Papua New Guinea special, the show will kick off in the capital city, Port Moresby, completing their Southern Region lag. After Port Moresby the film crew will be in the Highlands Region, specifically Hela Province in Tari. Here, the crew will experience the unique flavors and cooking methods of the Highlands, likely sampling traditional dishes prepared in earth ovens – known locally as, “mumus”.
The journey will then take them to the Momase Region, where they will explore the remote village of Palambei in East Sepik Province, along the Sepik River. This area is known for its vibrant cultural practices and its staple food, sago.
The final leg of their culinary adventure will be in the New Guinea Islands Region, with a visit to Rabaul in East New Britain Province.
The opportunity to feature PNG on such a prominent platform was first presented to the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) by PNG Experience, a leading tour company known for its expertly curated tours across the country. TPA’s role ensured that Sonny and his team received strong support from the local tourism industry, through special discounts making it feasible for the BEFRS crew to film in various parts of the country.
TPA has acknowledged the vital contributions of key industry players, including Air Niugini, Hilton Hotel – Port Moresby, and the National Capital District Commission (NCDC). These partners provided essential support in the form of discounted flights, accommodations, and local resources, making it possible for the show to capture the essence of Papua New Guinea’s hospitality and culture.
TPA’s Senior Marketing Officer, Simon Pih, expressed his excitement at Sonny’s arrival in the country. “We are thrilled to welcome Sonny Side and his team to Papua New Guinea. Their decision to explore our country’s diverse cuisine through our rich culinary heritage will be an unforgettable journey for them. We believe that through their online platform, the world will get a glimpse of the unique flavors and cultural experiences that make Papua New Guinea truly special and will also ultimately promote our country’s tourism potential to the world,” said Pih. ◼️
📸: (Above banner image) Sonny Side and the Best Ever Food Review Show crew filming and sampling local food at the Koki Market, Port Moresby.
📸: (above image) Sonny Side and the Best Ever Food Review Show crew filming at the famous Kula Lamb Flaps Market, Port Moresby.
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) engaged over 500 high school students at the 2024 IEA College of TAFE Education Fair, showcasing opportunities and sparking interest in the tourism industry.
The event took place at the IEA College of TAFE, from Thursday 1st to Friday 2nd August in Port Moresby, featuring a variety of engaging activities designed to enhance student interaction and provide valuable insights into different industries.
The fair saw attendance from several schools, with participation from Tokarara Secondary School, Sunrise Baptist School, Caritas Technical Secondary School, POMIS (170), Badihagwa Secondary, Dela Salle Catholic Secondary School, La Salle Technical School, Malolo International School, Zion Zeal, St. Josephs International, Butuka Academy, and Kila Secondary.
Throughout the two-day event, students had the opportunity to participate in numerous games and draws which included Spin the Wheel, The Hoop Game and Footy Toss.
Students earned the chance to play these games by completing a questionnaire, which encouraged them to visit various booths and ask questions to gather information.
Students eagerly engaged with the TPA team, earning exclusive TPA merchandise by answering quiz questions about travel and tourism in Papua New Guinea.
Major draw prizes included three laptops sponsored by Theodist PNG Limited, with one laptop awarded each day. The Mega Draw, held on the second day, featured a laptop from Theodist and additional merchandise from supporting business houses like Digicel, PNG Ports Corporation, and Hastings Deering.
TPA’s HR Officer for Personnel, Adrin Manavutah, expressed her gratitude to the organizers of the event.
“A heartfelt gratitude for the invitation and the opportunity to participate in the event. We thoroughly enjoyed marketing our company to the students. Thank you!
While many students asked questions from the provided slips, we were particularly impressed by those who asked additional questions out of curiosity. Our team enjoyed the interactions and engagements with the students, making these two days some of the best we’ve had in the field,” said Manavutah.
IEA College of TAFE’s Online Training Coordinator, Michaeline Stevens, conveyed her appreciation to TPA for their participation.
“Thank you for your invaluable support at our 2024 Education Fair. The event, which drew 550 students over two days, was a resounding success, and we recognize that this achievement would not have been possible without your presence and participation.
We deeply appreciate not only your contribution to this event but also the many years of continuous support that PNG Tourism Promotion Authority has graciously extended to our college,” said Stevens.
📸 Above banner image (L-R), PNG Tourism Promotion Authority staff – John Vaii, Marley Heai, Kadara Wanu, Adrin Manavutah, Craig Kaviagu and Anton Selve.
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The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) released insights into tourism trends for Papua New Guinea through the International Visitor Survey (IVS) conducted over six months, from June to November 2023, through its Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI). This initiative is pivotal in collating and analyzing data that reflect current trends, challenges, and opportunities within the tourism sector.
The ongoing research conducted by SPTO provides information for stakeholders to grasp the intricacies of tourism patterns, thereby enabling informed decision-making that can bolster economic growth and sustainability across Pacific nations. The IVS survey for PNG gathered essential insights from visitors during this period. Using recent visitor email addresses provided by the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), the SPTO PTDI team invited recent visitors to Papua New Guinea to participate in the IVS to capture their valuable feedback on visitor satisfaction, expenditure, and perceptions of recent travel experiences.
993 participants, representing 941 adults and 144 children, contributed their experiences and perspectives. These responses account for two percent of the total visitors to Papua New Guinea during this time. Between June and November 2023, PNG experienced approximately 60,277 international air arrivals. Based on IVS estimates, these visitors brought in an estimated $182 million USD.
In their responses to the surveys, respondents cited several influential factors in their decision to travel to Papua New Guinea, including:
Furthermore, the survey revealed that 46% of respondents were first-time visitors to Papua New Guinea, and the average annual household income among respondents was around USD 90,000. Feedback from respondents was overwhelmingly positive, with an average satisfaction rating of 4 out of 5. Additionally, 85% of respondents indicated they would recommend PNG as a travel destination, and 86% expressed their intention to return on a future visit. The timeline for the delivery of the Annual IVS report, covering data collected over twelve months from June 2023 to May 2024, is set for July 2024. A subsequent IVS report covering data collected over six months from January to June 2024 will be available by August 2024.
PNGTPA CEO Eric Mossman Uvovo shared that the data would be instrumental in guiding TPA as PNGTPA continued to work towards promoting the country’s rich culture and natural treasures on the global stage.
“By understanding visitor trends and economic impacts, we can tailor our marketing campaigns to attract more tourists, strengthen economic growth, and create more job opportunities for our people. These insights from the survey will help us navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead, ensuring that PNG continues to grow as a leading destination in the Pacific. This initiative is crucial for understanding visitor trends, enabling us to refine our strategies and enhance our marketing efforts to position PNG as a premier tourism destination. The survey, conducted by the SPTO through the PTDI, provides invaluable insights into our visitors’ motivations, experiences, and economic contributions. We look forward to the continued collaboration with SPTO and other stakeholders to drive sustainable tourism development in our beautiful country,” Mr Uvovo said.
SPTO Chief Executive Officer Chris Cocker mentioned that SPTO’s commitment to disseminating these findings is crucial for empowering the NTOs, local businesses, and governments.
“By providing access to comprehensive data analyses, stakeholders can develop targeted initiatives that enhance visitor satisfaction and promote longer stays. Ultimately, the PTDI serves as an essential tool for fostering collaboration among various entities involved in tourism management and plays an integral role in shaping a resilient and thriving tourism landscape across the diverse nations of the Pacific region,” Mr Cocker said.
The PTDI data collection covers ten Pacific nations and is funded by the New Zealand Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT). The PTDI work supports these nations in understanding and adapting to the evolving landscape of tourism, ensuring sustainable growth and positive impacts for communities, businesses, and visitors. The PTDI’s research includes an International Visitor Survey (IVS), a Business Confidence Index (BCI), and a Community Attitudes Survey (CAS). These tools collectively generate essential data that guide evidence-based decision-making by government tourism agencies and businesses in the Pacific. As of October 1st, 2023, the PTDI has transitioned from the New Zealand Tourism Research Institute (NZTRI) at Auckland University of Technology (AUT) to the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO). ◼️
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