Tourism Promotion Authority and PTI Australia Strengthen PNG’s Digital Tourism Future

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), in partnership with the Pacific Trade Invest (PTI) Australia, successfully delivered the Advanced Digital Tourism Workshop to strengthen digital strategies for PNG’s online tourism presence on Tuesday 24 June at the Lamana Hotel Famagusta Room, in Port Moresby.  The full-day event brought together key tourism stakeholders and operators to explore innovative digital ideas.

Trade Commissioner for PTI Australia, Tim Martin, spoke about PTI Australia’s Digital Tourism Program, a long-running initiative supporting Pacific tourism operators with tools and training to improve their digital capabilities.

Martin introduced the Digital Tourism Program as well as highlighting the importance of strengthening online visibility and bookings for PNG tourism businesses.
“Digital transformation is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. PTI Australia is proud to walk alongside PNG’s tourism operators as they embrace digital tools that connect them directly to the global traveler,” said Martin.

The core of the day’s program was delivered by Craig Smith from Counterpoint, PTI Australia’s digital service provider, who led the technical training.  Smith emphasized the importance of utilizing digital tools such as SEO, social media, Online Travel Agents (OTA), and secure payment systems.
“The goal is to turn your websites into your most powerful sales agents. With the right strategies, even small operators in PNG can reach international markets and increase direct bookings significantly,” said Smith.

The workshop covered essential topics such as strategies to increase direct bookings via websites, leveraging search engine marketing (SEM), balancing OTA partnerships, and creating cost-effective social media campaigns. Attendees also explored how to effectively use Google’s digital tools, including Google My Business and Hotel Ads.

Further sessions focused on secure, automated payment processing for accommodation and tour operators, introducing solutions such as Hotel Link Pay and Nabooki. These tools are part of a broader push to streamline the booking experience and boost customer confidence across the Pacific’s tourism industry.

The afternoon sessions included a review of key learnings, steps for ongoing support and onboarding, and a vote of thanks from the PTI Australia team.  One-on-one meetings between facilitators and participants followed, offering tailored advice to help operators begin their digital transformation journey.

Managing Director for VilLink Tours & Expeditions and the Chairlady for Milne Bay Tourism Association, Maleta Martha Tokwakwasi thanked TPA and PTI for the insightful workshop.
“One of the most valuable takeaways from the workshop was understanding online booking and cancellation policies. As tourism operators, we need to be prepared when a client changes their mind or cancels, and this session gave us real clarity on how to manage those situations professionally.
The one-on-one consultation with Craig Smith was also incredibly useful—it gave us tailored insights into improving our website and online presence, which is crucial for a business like ours,” said Tokwakwasi.
She also added that the training should be conducted at a grassroot level for local tour operators to understand digital tools.
“PTI and PNGTPA have taken a great step forward with this digital workshop. But we strongly encourage that these programs be extended beyond the major centers. Our remote communities and grassroots operators also deserve access to digital tools and training to help grow their small tourism businesses,” said Tokwakwasi.

PTI Australia’s Digital Tourism Program, established in 2012, has supported over 300 websites across the Pacific region, generating more than AUD 10 million annually in online bookings. By equipping local tourism operators with user-friendly websites, booking tools, and digital marketing strategies, the program continues to elevate the region’s visibility and competitiveness in the global tourism market.

TPA’s Executive Manager for Marketing & Promotions, Joel Keimelo, highlighted TPA’s role in developing and marketing the country’s unique tourism experiences.
“Papua New Guinea’s tourism sector holds immense potential. Through partnerships like this with PTI Australia, we’re equipping our operators with digital capabilities that can unlock new markets and drive sustainable tourism development across the country,” said Keimelo.◼️

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TPA Pledges K50,000 for the 51st Hiri Moale Festival

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) committed K50,000 towards the 51st Hiri Moale Festival during a cheque presentation on Thursday, March 13th, 2025, at the Motu Koita Assembly boardroom in Port Moresby.

Set to take place from April 3rd to 6th, the Hiri Moale Festival is one of Papua New Guinea’s most celebrated cultural events, honouring the historic Hiri trading voyages between the Motuans and Gulf people.

This year’s festival is expected to attract more than 15,000 attendees, drawing cultural enthusiasts from across the country and beyond. 

Beyond the financial sponsorship, PNGTPA will collaborate with the Hiri Moale Festival Committee to capture high-quality photo and video content to promote the Hiri Motuan and Gulf cultures. 

Motu Koita Assembly’s Manager & CEO, Mari Kila thanked TPA for its support.
“I’d like to thank TPA for its generous support towards the 51st Hiri Moale Festival. This support is vital in ensuring we deliver a successful event that honours our ancestors’ legacy while also providing opportunities for local artists, performers, and tourism operators. 

TPA’s commitment strengthens our efforts to elevate the festival’s profile and show the unique traditions of the Motu Koita people to a broader audience,” said Kila.

TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo highlighted the importance of the festival.
“TPA is proud to support this year’s Hiri Moale Festival, as it reaffirms our commitment to preserving and promoting Papua New Guinea’s rich cultural heritage.
The Hiri Moale Festival is not just a celebration of history; it is a testament of the resilience and traditions of the Motu Koita people. As we approach the nation’s 50th Independence Anniversary this year, this festival is one of those that shows our identity and the importance of cultural tourism,” said Uvovo.◼️  

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Pacific Tourism Organisation and Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority Release Key Findings from the 2024 International Visitor Survey

The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), through its Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI) and in collaboration with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), has published the 2024 Papua New Guinea Annual International Visitor Survey (IVS) Report. Covering the period from January to December 2024, the report provides critical insights into visitor demographics, spending patterns, and overall experiences of Papua New Guinea (PNG) international tourists. These findings will support evidence-based planning and enhance PNG’s tourism offerings to align with evolving visitor expectations.

SPTO Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker highlighted the significance of the PTDI in shaping sustainable tourism growth across the Pacific.

He said SPTO remains committed to working closely with TPA and other member countries to ensure the PTDI continues to deliver meaningful insights that drive sustainable tourism development across the Pacific.

“As the leading hub for Pacific tourism research, SPTO is committed to equipping our member countries, including PNG, with reliable data to inform strategic decisions. The PTDI is a vital resource that enables governments and industry stakeholders to make informed choices that strengthen regional tourism development,” he said.

TPA CEO Eric Mossman Uvovo acknowledged the value of the IVS findings, highlighting their role in improving visitor experiences and positioning PNG as a competitive destination.

“These insights are instrumental in shaping the future of tourism in PNG. We appreciate SPTO’s collaboration in delivering these reports, which will guide our strategies for sustainable tourism growth,” said Uvovo.

The survey ran from January to December 2024, analyzing 3,701 responses from 3,775 collected, with a 24% response rate. 42% of respondents were first-time visitors, with an average household income of USD 86,074.

Australia recorded the highest visitor arrivals into PNG at 39%, Asia at 35%, and Europe at 8%. The dominant age group was 40-59 years old. 48% traveled to PNG for business, 23% traveled for leisure and 18% visited PNG to visit friends and relatives (18%).
Key attractions included nature, cultural heritage, business opportunities, and family visits. World War II heritage sites were a major draw for historical tourism. Visitors appreciated the warmth and hospitality of the local people.

The average prepaid visitor spending was USD 2,613, with 65% (USD 1,699) benefiting the local economy. In-country spending averaged USD 1,385 per trip, with an average stay of 10.2 nights. Visitors contributed USD 309 million to PNG’s economy, a 9% increase from the previous year.

Overall satisfaction was 4 out of 5, with 86% recommending PNG and 89% willing to return. Visitors rated hospitality, tours, handicrafts, accommodation, and activities highly. Areas for improvement included safety, travel costs, domestic flights, infrastructure, cleanliness, and security.

Since transitioning to SPTO’s management in October 2023, the PTDI continues to serve as an essential resource for tourism data across the Pacific. Funded by the New Zealand Government, the PTDI supports ten Pacific Island nations—Cook Islands, Niue, PNG, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Tonga, Kiribati, Timor Leste, and FSM-Yap—in evidence-based planning and decision-making. The initiative produces a bi-annual International Visitor Survey (IVS), an annual Business Confidence Index (BCI), and an annual Community Attitude Survey (CAS) report to strengthen regional tourism strategies.

To read the latest PTDI reports for PNG, click here: https://southpacificislands.travel/pacific-tourism-data-initiative/ptdi-reports-png/

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Tourism Promotion Authority Partners with Dustin Chen to Enhance Bird Watching in Papua New Guinea

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) officially signed a contract with Dustin Chen, a UK-based wildlife photographer, on Tuesday 11th March at the TPA office in Port Moresby to position the country as a premier global birding destination

Renowned for his stunning photos of Papua New Guinea’s diverse avian life, TPA will engage Chen as a consultant for the development of Papua New Guinea’s National Birding Trail

The agreement is set to run from April 18th, 2025, to April 18th, 2026, with TPA providing logistical support and funding. 

Under the agreement, Chen will lead the identification and mapping of key bird-watching hotspots, conduct capacity-building programs for local birding guides, and contribute to the creation of high-quality visual content to enhance TPA’s marketing of this unique niche market to the world. 

Chen has been instrumental in bringing international attention to Papua New Guinea’s extraordinary birdlife. His award-winning photograph, “Dance of the Flame Bird,” received high commendation in the ‘Behaviour: Birds’ category of the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition in 2022. 

Capturing a male flame bowerbird in a captivating courtship display.
Through his extensive work, Chen has travelled to PNG many times to document the country’s birds, from the dense rainforests of Kiunga to other remote birding locations teeming with rare and endemic species.  His expertise in the field will be crucial in shaping Papua New Guinea’s first structured National Birding Trail, aimed at attracting international birdwatchers and conservationists. 

Chen highlighted the importance of the partnership with TPA.
“Based on my experience traveling across South America, Asia, and Africa, I am confident that PNG has the potential to become a leading destination for birding tourism.◼️ 

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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) proudly celebrated International Women’s Day (IWD) on Monday 11th March with a breakfast event, honouring the contributions of its female employees.

Thirty female staff members and their male colleagues celebrated this occasion demonstrating the organization’s inclusive work environment and the spirit of unity.

TPA’s Executive Manager for Corporate Affairs, Claire Kupo, delivered an inspiring message, emphasizing the importance of this year’s IWD theme, “Accelerate Action.
“Today, on International Women’s Day 2025, we get to honour the strength, resilience, and vision of the women of TPA and around the world. This year’s theme, Accelerate Action, is a call to move beyond words and ignite real change,” said Kupo.
Kupo also encouraged everyone to take bold steps in empowering women across all sectors, reinforcing the need for meaningful progress toward gender equality.
“Together, we can create an environment where innovation and progress thrive, where each act of support propels us towards a more inclusive future. When women step forward with courage, every challenge becomes an opportunity, and together, we turn dreams into unstoppable change,” said Kupo.

TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, reiterated the organization’s commitment to promoting an equitable workplace.
“Equality is a strong driver behind TPA’s dynamic team. We take pride in the fact that more than 50% of our workforce is made up of talented and hardworking women. Their leadership, creativity, and dedication continue to propel PNG’s tourism sector forward,” said Uvovo.

The celebration concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony, and a group photo to commemorate the occasion. Staff members were encouraged to wear purple—the symbolic colour of International Women’s Day—to show solidarity in advancing gender equality.◼️

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Tourism Promotion Authority Opens Registration for National Tourism Conference & Expo 2025

The National Tourism Conference & Expo, is set to take place on Wednesday 9th to Thursday 10th April, 2025, at the Hilton Hotel Port Moresby, aligning with the Nation’s 50th Independence Anniversary

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) urges tourism industry members, stakeholders, and business leaders to register for the much-anticipated National Tourism Conference & Expo 2025 (NTCE).

Under the theme “Honouring Our Past, Transforming Our Future,” the conference aims to bring together key industry players, government agencies, and international tourism experts to discuss strategies to advance Papua New Guinea’s tourism sector. 

The event will be hosted by TPA in partnership Papua New Guinea Tourism Industry Association (PNGTIA) and sponsored by Mineral Resource Development Company (MRDC) as the event’s platinum sponsor.

TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo calls on all industry members to register and participate in the 2025 National Tourism Conference & Expo
“We are calling on all industry players, from accommodation providers and tour operators to government agencies and corporate investors, to be part of this timely event.
This is more than just a conference, this is a catalyst to transform Papua New Guinea’s tourism sector for the future,” said Uvovo. 

The Tourism Conference & Expo will feature panel discussions, keynote addresses, and networking opportunities designed to strengthen collaboration and innovation within the industry.

Over 35 expert speakers will share insights across eight conference sessions, while 300 participants and 43 exhibitors are expected to attend.

Interested participants can register through the TPA website. General admission fees are K1,000 per person, with discounted rates of K500 for PNGTIA, Surf, and Dive Association members.

For businesses looking to increase visibility, sponsorship opportunities are available under Gold, set at K100,000, Silver, at K75,000, and Bronze, at K50,000.  Sponsors will receive premium branding exposure, VIP seating at the gala dinner, and media recognition. 

Limited exhibition booth spaces are also available for corporates, at K1,500 or K700 for members of PNGTIA, offering businesses a chance to engage directly with potential clients and partners.

With the event drawing closer, TPA has set the deadline for registration: Saturday 29th March 2025.  TPA urges all tourism industry stakeholders to secure their seats, exhibit their services, or take advantage of sponsorship packages before spaces run out.◼️   

 

For more details, visit www.papuanewguinea.travel/ntc-2025/ or contact TPA’s event coordination team at ntc@papuanewguinea.travel 

 

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Improving Facilities, Supporting Communities, and Strengthening Sustainable Tourism along the Kokoda Trail      

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and the Australian Government-funded Kokoda Initiative Partnership (KIP) have signed an MOA to boost tourism infrastructure and services along the Kokoda Trail.

The MOA, signed at Owens Corner on Tuesday 4 February, launches the “Kokoda Sanitation Project”.  The Kokoda Sanitation Project is part of a broader effort to strengthen sustainable tourism development in Papua New Guinea.  It will address inadequate and poor sanitation along the Kokoda Trail, which have been longstanding challenges for both tourists and locals.

TPA’s CEO Eric Mossman Uvovo said that the primary objective of the MOA is to strengthen tourism development along the Kokoda Trail. 

“This partnership marks a significant step forward in our efforts to not only preserve the historical importance of the Kokoda Trail, but to enhance the visitor experience by improving facilities and services,” said Uvovo.

Uvovo also emphasized the importance of upgrading campsite facilities and improving working conditions for porters.

“The Kokoda Trail is a national treasure. By improving the amenities and ensuring that local operators are better equipped to serve tourists, we are ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach the communities directly involved.

Local communities are at the heart of our tourism industry. This partnership ensures that they will directly benefit from the development projects along the trail,” said Uvovo.

The MOA will be in effect until 2026, with between three and five major projects planned for implementation. Success will be measured by the timely delivery of projects, the positive impact on local trekking facilities, and the subsequent benefits to the communities involved.

The core focus of this partnership is the promotion of sustainable tourism development and the utilization of local resources and knowledge. The TPA, with the support of KIP, aims to enhance the tourism infrastructure along the Kokoda Trail while preserving its cultural and historical significance.

The partnership is expected to deliver many benefits, including improved services and facilities, which will enable local businesses to charge higher campsite fees and increase revenue for the communities along the Track.

Future capacity-building initiatives for local tourism operators and associations will strengthen the Kokoda trekking industry, making it more competitive and sustainable, while environmentally, the introduction of upgraded sanitation services will support a healthier and safer environment for both locals and visitors.

Daniel Wells, Counsellor for Kokoda and Bougainville at the Australian High Commission, emphasized the significance of the Kokoda Track to the Australia-Papua New Guinea bilateral relationship.

“The Kokoda Trail remains one of the most important people-to-people links between PNG and Australia, with nearly 3,000 people, most of them Australian, walking the Track each year.

This is an investment by Australia in PNG’s most important tourism asset. Australia, through the Kokoda Initiative Partnership, is proud to have invested in measurable improvements to livelihoods outcomes for Kokoda  communities, including through sustainable tourism initiatives,” said Wells.◼️

Eric Uvovo Joshua Madgwick Moa Signing Kokoda Sanitation Project Owers Corner Papua New Guinea
📷 Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo and ABT Associates’ Team Leader, Joshua Madgwick following the successful signing of the MOA between the two parties at Owens Corner in the Central Province.
Julius Wargirai Moa Signing Kokoda Sanitation Project Owers Corner Papua New Guinea
📷 The CEO of the Kokoda Track Authority (KTA) Julias Wargirai speaking during the MOA signing at Owens Corner in the Central Province.
Moa Signing Kokoda Sanitation Project Owers Corner Papua New Guinea
📷 (Seated, L-R) Tourism Promotion Authority’s (TPA) Executive Manager for Partnership & Product Development, Kennewton Kennedy, TPA’s Executive Manager for Research & Business Development, Douglas Keari, TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, ABT Associates’ Team leader, Joshua Madgwick, Kokoda Track Authority’s (KTA) CEO, Julias Wargirai, KTA’s Chairman, Jack Deia and team’s from TPA, KTA, Ranger of the Kokoda Track and representatives of the Koiari people following the MOA signing at Owens Corner in the Central Province

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Tourism Promotion Authority Partner with Jimi District Development Authority to Strengthen Tourism in Jiwaka Province 

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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Pacific Tourism Organisation and PNG Tourism Promotion Authority release Key Findings from International Visitor Surveys

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.◼️ 

For further information, email: info@papuanewguinea.travel 

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Pacific Tourism Organisation and Tourism Promotion Authority Release Key Findings from First-Ever Community Attitudes Survey in Papua New Guinea 

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: 

  1. Enhance Tourism Education: Develop programs to increase local understanding of tourism’s benefits and promote responsible tourism practices.
  2. Strengthen Environmental and Cultural Protections: Implement policies to mitigate the environmental and cultural impacts of tourism, ensuring long-term sustainability.
  3. Improve Infrastructure and Safety: Address concerns about safety and infrastructure by investing in key tourism areas to improve both visitor experiences and local confidence in the industry.
  4. Promote Regional Participation: Broaden tourism initiatives to ensure greater involvement from all regions, addressing regional disparities in tourism development.

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.◼️ 

For more information, email: info@papuanewguinea.travel 

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