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10/06/2026
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) officially launched the Enga Cultural Festival on Friday 9th August in Wabag, Enga Province.
The festival, renowned for celebrating the rich culture of Enga Province, marked a significant milestone this year with its 30th Anniversary.
Honourable Sir Peter Ipatas, Governor of Enga Province, expressed his gratitude for TPA’s continued support.
“I’d like to thank TPA for its continued support throughout the years, making this annual cultural festival one of the best in the country,” said Sir Ipatas.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo highlighted the importance of the festival in reflecting the cultural richness of the Enga people.
“The people of Enga have been through a lot in the past few years, and it is always beautiful to see the vibrant culture of the Enga people come alive through this annual event,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo also emphasized the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
“Shows such as this remind us of our proud culture, and it’s always an honour to see so many young faces proudly dressed in their traditional attire and showing their culture,” said Uvovo.
From Friday 9th to Saturday 10th August, the Enga Cultural Festival showcased a weekend of more than 30 different unique traditional performances, vibrant displays of traditional rituals, traditional craft & artifacts, floral displays and community spirit, reinforcing its reputation as one of the country’s most celebrated cultural events.
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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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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) is preparing to launch a Tourism Crisis Management & Destination Recovery Plan aimed at strengthening the resilience of the nation’s tourism sector during times of crisis.
The plan outlines key actions based on four pillars: Reduce, Ready, Response, and Recovery. It is designed to support TPA, the leading tourism body in Papua New Guinea, in its efforts to anticipate and respond to crises effectively.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo highlighted the importance of the plan to protect and build resilience in the tourism sector of the country.
“This initiative aims to safeguard the tourism industry, a critical driver of economic development in Papua New Guinea, contributing significantly to job creation and revenue generation. Tourism plays a vital role in showcasing Papua New Guinea’s rich culture and natural treasures, promoting unity and cultural exchange. However, the sector is highly susceptible to various crises, including natural disasters, health emergencies, political instability, and economic downturns. These crises can bring significant challenges to travel and tourism, making it imperative for the sector to be well-prepared,” said Uvovo.
It is anticipated that by September, Papua New Guinea will have a new Tourism Crisis Management Strategy ready to be implemented, marking a significant step forward in protecting, safeguarding and sustaining the nation’s vital tourism industry. ◼️
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) attended the 2024 Global Bird Fair (GBF) on Friday 12 to Sunday 14 July to showcase Papua New Guinea’s exceptional birding potential in Rutland, Oakham, UK.
TPA’s participation in this B2B trade fair event provided a valuable platform for connecting with international birding tour operators, travel agents, and conservation organizations.
The event was highly productive, with over 50 qualified leads generated through meetings and discussions with potential birding tourism partners, including tour operators, travel agents, conservation groups, media representatives, photographers, and bird watchers. This engagement led to increased awareness of Papua New Guinea as a premier birding destination among key industry players, established valuable connections for future travel packages, and sparked media interest in PNG’s birding industry.
The presence of professional PNG bird photographer Dustin Chen, whose high-resolution images and expertise also drew considerable attention, effectively directing sales to Papua New Guinea-based tour operators.
A TPA representative who attended the event, Product Development Officer, David Monai, said that the PNG booth was one of the main attractions.
“Our booth was a focal point at the event, featuring high-quality photographs of Papua New Guinea’s diverse birdlife and birding destinations, with informative brochures, maps, and promotional materials. The booth also offered one-on-one and small group information sessions, providing a personalized approach for attendees.
The connections made at the GBF have opened doors for potential partnerships and future initiatives to promote responsible birding practices and community development in Papua New Guinea. Our plans now are to maintain communication with interested parties, provide further
information and support to potential tour operators, and explore collaboration opportunities with conservation organizations,” said Monai.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo highlighted the importance of PNG’s presence at the GBF.
“The success at the event highlights the growing demand for bird watching from the UK and European markets. To capitalize on this, we start preparing ourselves early for next year’s Global Bird Fair. After a hiatus of 5-6 years due to Covid-19 restrictions, the post-Covid bookings and travel plans secured at this year’s fair emphasizes the need for continuous participation.
Proper training and capacity building for PNG birding industry stakeholders are crucial to meet market demands. This includes standard compliance, bird identification, constructing hides near leks, placing bird feeders, and using bird box solar-powered cameras,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo commended his team for their participation in this year’s GBF.
“Our participation in this year’s Global Bird Fair was a resounding success, providing a strategic platform to showcase our exceptional birding potential and establish vital connections within the global birding tourism industry, which will ultimately lead to empowering our local and rural communities in PNG,” said Uvovo. ◼️
📸: Top banner image, (L-R) PNG Tourism Promotion Authority’s Product Development Officer, David Monai with Air Niugini’s UK office representative, Steve Bresh, Paiya Tours Owner, Pym Mamindi, Flight Directors’s Managing Director, Vikki Joyce and TPA’s UK & Europe’s Trade Marketing representative, Robin Russell-Pavier at the PNG Booth during the 2024 Global Bird Fair in the UK.
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📸: Above image: NCDC and PNG Tourism Promotion Authority Promote 2024 Remembrance Day Kokoda Hike Special Event & Celebrations. (L-R) James Enage – director of Program Progress, NCDC Governor Hon. Powes Parkop, and Joel Keimelo – PNGTPA executive manager of marketing & promotions.
Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) has donated merchandise to support a special Remembrance Day Trek on the Kokoda Trail during the official launching of the event on Friday 12th June, Port Moresby. This special event, scheduled to take place from the 19th to 21st of July 2024, is a collaborative partnership with the National Capital District’s (NCDC) Governor’s Office and Program Progress, a locally owned business development company.
Program Progress’ Director & Business Development Consultant, James Enage thanked TPA for its support emphasizing that the event will give participants a memorable experience.
“The event aims to integrate a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure by offering participants three days of trekking along the historic Kokoda Track, concluding with mini cultural and music festivities in the morning and a Remembrance Day celebration in the afternoon,” said Enage. He also highlighted the significance of this event and has encouraged people to participate in this year’s special hike.
“The cost for participating in this season’s trek is estimated at K1,562.00 per person, with the overall event costing around K66,400.00. The NCDC Governor’s office has committed to covering 75% of the total cost for 100 trekkers, allowing participants to pay just 25% of the cost, amounting to K390.50 per person,” said Enage.
The National Capital District’s Governor, Hon. Powes Parkop reiterated the importance of the Kokoda hike as a crucial part to promoting tourism in Port Moresby.
“This city is the gateway to Papua New Guinea, and its potential has often been overlooked. However, through our partnership with PNGTPA, formalized by our MOA last year, we are committed to showcasing the city’s unique attractions and cultural heritage. This three-day trek serves multiple purposes: honoring those who fought in the Battle of Kokoda, promoting our city’s tourism potential, and encouraging health and wellness among our people. The Kokoda Trail is not just a historical landmark; it’s a symbol of unity and resilience. By developing it as a tourist attraction, we aim to draw visitors from around the world, contributing to our economy and cultural preservation,” said Parkop.
TPA’s Executive Manager for Marketing & Promotions, Joel Keimelo commended the Honourable Governor and Mr Enage for creating the special hike to Kokoda and encouraged them to work with TPA to strengthen Kokoda as a premier tourist attraction.
“Our efforts also include creating a sustainable tourist product and enhancing the experience for trekkers. This initiative will benefit the local communities along the trek and strengthen a greater appreciation of our nation’s history and natural beauty.
Let us work together to harness the full potential of our tourism industry, ensuring it brings prosperity to Port Moresby and all of Papua New Guinea,” said Keimelo.
The support from TPA and the collaborative effort between the NCDC Governor’s office and Program Progress will make this year’s Remembrance Day Trekking & Celebrations a landmark event, celebrating Papua New Guinea’s rich heritage and natural beauty while strengthening tourism growth. ◼️
For more information, and to participate in this unique experience, please contact Program Progress on email: Experience22@gmail.com, or call: +675 7233 1339.
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A Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) employee has joined more than 15 other participants from across the Pacific who have become eligible to graduate with a Certificate IV in Climate Resilience from Fiji’s prestige university.
TPA’s Product Development Officer, Lemban Kaki recently returned from Fiji, where he completed his final presentation assessment for the Certificate IV in Climate Resilience at the University of the South Pacific (USP). The assessment, conducted from Saturday 22 to Sunday 30 June 2024, has qualified him for graduation in September this year at USP’s Laucala campus in Suva, Fiji.
The Certificate IV in Climate Resilience is a six-month course designed to equip participants with essential knowledge and skills to tackle climate challenges. The program focuses on practical applications and policy frameworks crucial to strengthen resilience in vulnerable communities and effectively addressing climate change issues.
Lemban Kaki thanked TPA for its continuous support towards upskilling its employees.
“I am truly humbled and would like to thank TPA who recognized the importance of this course and granted me approval to take leave for my participation. The knowledge and experiences gained will be integrated into my work, particularly in marine projects,” said Kaki.
The course covers four key topics: Vulnerability and Risk Assessment, Resilience Projects, Institutional Frameworks in Resilience, and Hazards and Sustainable Practices in Resilience. The programme is sponsored by the Pacific-European Union Marine Partnership (PEUMP) Program, jointly funded by the European Union (EU) and the Government of Sweden, and delivered by USP through its Pacific Technical and Further Education.
The program’s purpose is to address the impacts of climate change, which have become a global concern, particularly for developing nations like the Pacific Island Countries (PICs). The course aims to build capacity for mitigating climate challenges and implementing adaptation strategies, aligning with international agreements like the Paris Agreement.
The topics covered in the course align with the goals and requirements of Papua New Guinea’s Environment Act (2000) and Climate Change and Development Act (2015). Implementing climate initiatives in accordance with national laws and international agreements also aligns with the TPA’s Environmental and Social Management Framework and the Papua New Guinea Tourism Sector Development Plan 2022-2026.
TPA’s Executive Manager for Partnership & Product Development, Kennewton Kennedy, emphasized the importance of the knowledge gained through the programme.
“Understanding climate change and reducing disaster risks is crucial and will be mainstreamed into our Products and Development Projects. This integration will ensure our initiatives are socially, environmentally, economically, and climate-friendly, thereby enhancing resilience, promoting eco-tourism within the green industry space, and setting a positive example as a tourism authority in the country,” said Kennedy.
During his week in Fiji, Kaki engaged in educational exchanges and delivered an interactive, practical presentation that was considered the best among all groups. His presentation combined theoretical knowledge with practical examples, demonstrating a strong understanding of the course concepts and effective mitigation strategies.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, congratulated Lemban on his achievement commending him on his dedication towards his studies.
“His successful completion of the Certificate IV in Climate Resilience is a testament to TPA’s commitment to capacity building and sustainable development. The skills and knowledge he brings back will undoubtedly contribute to the advancement of climate resilience projects in Papua New Guinea, aligning with national and international climate goals.
I am confident that the knowledge gained and experiences learned from the university will be translated and integrated into his work,” said Uvovo. ◼️
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) honoured two exceptional graduates from the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) with the TPA Academic Excellence Award at a ceremony held on Tuesday 2nd July, Port Moresby.
Harmson Waliya and Rendy Ono, both recipients of the prestigious award, expressed their heartfelt gratitude for TPA’s unwavering support in their careers in tourism.
The event saw attendance from UPNG’s Head of Division Tourism and Hospitality Management, Dr. Joyce Jazmin-Rayel, along with her lecturers from the School of Business & Public Policy, and TPA staff.
Harmson, who graduated in Business Management majoring in Tourism Hospitality Management, highlighted the positive impact of such initiatives on aspiring tourism professionals.
“Such initiatives motivate us, the students. I also see that the future of this industry is secure when partnerships and collaborations between the industry and institutions occur. As a student, I have noticed that there has been a missing link that needs to be connected. The industry has been functioning on its own, and students have been studying independently. Additionally, some of the things taught in class are different from what is happening in the industry. This initiative of coming together for a shared goal suggests that the industry is sustainable and growing, but it needs more effort,” said Waliya.
Harmson excelled during his studies, achieving top grades in the Tourism and Hospitality Management curriculum. He served as Events Manager for the 16th UPNG Tourism Convention, was a student leader in his church known for his strong moral character, and exhibited exemplary behaviour, setting high standards for classmates. He also completed an industry immersion at TPA, demonstrating his dedication and commitment to his field.
Rendy Ono, Professional Studies & Business Management Tourism & Hospitality (PSTHM) graduate, described the program as a blessing.
“I come from a teaching background and studied science, but entering tourism was a new experience for me. I struggled at first, but as I progressed, I learned a lot. I thought, if I had taken tourism in my youth, it would have been much better for me. But it’s not too late, and I’m very happy for my second chance,” said Ono.
Rendy consistently topped the PSTHM cohort. Transitioning from a teaching background, he demonstrated strong tourism research skills, organized the 2nd UPNG Tourism Industry Seminar, and volunteered during the PNG Update 2022-2023.
Head of Division Tourism and Hospitality Management at UPNG, Dr. Joyce Jazmin-Rayel, praised the award recipients.
“I’m so glad and proud of both men, because the TPA Academic Excellence Award honors outstanding graduates in tourism and hospitality management from the university. Both men have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements, strong leadership qualities, and exemplary behaviour throughout their studies,” said Dr. Jazmin-Rayel.
TPA’s Executive Manager for Corporate Affairs, Clair Kupo, highlighted the importance of the program and acknowledged the graduates.
“As part of the economic sector, we strive to do our best despite cash flow limitations. We are grateful for the program and our partnership with UPNG, which builds the capacity of tourism operators and those interested in tourism and hospitality management, including our own staff, said Kupo. ◼️
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Left to Right: Department of Agriculture & Livestock Secretary (DAL), Dr Sergi Bang with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority’s (TPA) CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo during the signing of the MOU between TPA and DAL in Port Moresby.
The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and the Department of Agriculture and Livestock (DAL) have entered a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop agritourism in Papua New Guinea.
The MOU signed on Thursday 27 June in Port Moresby, marks a step towards utilizing the country’s rich agricultural heritage to boost tourism and forge a partnership between two key economic sectors of PNG.
Key objectives of this collaborative effort include the development of a National Agritourism Policy, to guide investment and establishing agritourism pilot projects in the Eastern Highlands, Milne Bay, East New Britain, and Morobe Provinces.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo said that Agritourism Steering Committee (ASC) and Agritourism Technical Working Group (ATWG) will be subsequently formed to guide the implementation of the MOU between the two parties. In addition, it is most likely that the committee will expand in the future to make room for relevant stakeholders who are involved in the space such as Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Fresh Produce Development Agency (FPDA), to ensure a sustainable and inclusive agritourism sector is developed.
“Agritourism is an emerging niche tourism product that has great potential; the concept of agritourism provides an opportunity for local farmers such as Honey Bee producers, trout fish farmers or coffee growers, for example, to develop tour itineraries that are centred around their commodity or cash crop. By doing so, it provides local farmers the opportunity to develop a tour package that proudly showcases the farm site, process from raw material to a finished product and allows for branding of local PNG products or local dishes and cuisine.
The MOU partnership with DAL will provide the policy and planning advisory support and co-financing of an integrated work plan, we are setting the foundation for a sustainable agritourism sector. This collaboration will ensure that we harness the full potential of our agricultural and tourism resources to drive community empowerment, economic growth and cultural preservation,” said Uvovo.
Left to Right: Department of Agriculture & Livestock Secretary (DAL), Dr Sergi Bang with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority’s (TPA) CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo during the signing of the MOU between TPA and DAL in Port Moresby.
It is anticipated that following the endorsement of the National Agritourism Policy, the parties will work together to facilitate investment in the agritourism sector. This includes the development and marketing of existing agritourism products to create niche markets and attract tourists.
The Secretary for the Department of Agriculture and Livestock, Dr. Sergie Bang, has hailed the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) as a significant milestone for the agriculture sector. He emphasized that the collaboration aligns with the newly launched National Agriculture Sector Plan 2024-2033, which aims to transform subsistence farming into commercial farming and entrepreneurship.
Dr. Bang noted that agritourism development will play a crucial role in achieving these objectives by providing additional revenue for farm owners and strengthening self-sustaining, resilient communities.
During the event, Dr. Bang highlighted the shared commitment to facilitating regional consultations and comprehensive stakeholder engagement in the policy formulation process. By collaborating with relevant agencies, the partnership aims to efficiently achieve the MOU’s objectives and drive the transformation of the agriculture sector to empower healthy and prosperous agricultural communities.
The MOU is set for an initial period of three years, setting the stage for a path to harness Papua New Guinea’s agricultural potential to boost tourism. Through this partnership, both TPA and DAL are committed to developing a vibrant agritourism sector that will contribute significantly to the country’s economic development.
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and the National Capital District Commission (NCDC), along with more than 20 PNG participants from the public and the private sector, have concluded a seven-day international China roadshow to promote PNG as a prime tourism destination.
A total of 21 participating organizations, including four government agencies and 17 tourism operators, reported successful engagements and promising leads. The productive interactions throughout the event showed a strong interest for collaboration between PNG and Chinese tourism stakeholders.
Participants included representatives from PNGTPA, the National Capital District Commission (NCDC), the National Gaming Control Board (NGCB), Beijing Kumul Consular, Air Niugini Hong Kong GSA, and various tour operators and accommodation service providers. This diverse group worked together to showcase PNG’s tourism potential and establish strong connections with Chinese agents and wholesalers.
The China Ready Roadshow, held in the cities of Shenzhen and Guangzhou, received overwhelmingly positive feedback from a total of 117 Chinese agents and wholesalers, with 45 visitors in Shenzhen on Tuesday 18th June and 72 in Guangzhou on Thursday 20th June during the B2B exchange events.
The event commenced with a presentation led by TPA’s Executive Manager for Marketing and Promotions, Joel Keimelo and TPA’s Videographer, John Vaii, who highlighted the unique attractions and experiences PNG offers – pertinent to Papua New Guinea’s destination brand – A Million Different Journeys, simultaneously capturing the attention of the Chinese audience.
Participants on the roadshow also experienced cultural and city tours around Shenzhen and Guangzhou, which strengthened cultural ties and enriched their overall experience. These tours allowed the participants to immerse themselves in the local culture and landscape, enhancing the connection between the two countries.
China Travel Online’s CEO, Dr. Marcus Lee, who is a facilitator of the China Ready program emphasized the invaluable lessons learned during the event.
“The China Ready Roadshow has taught valuable lessons on market entry and positioning. If a destination is China Ready, then they are ready for any market,” said Dr Lee.
Dr. Lee also commended the efforts of TPA and various other organizations who ensured that the event was a success.
“With strategic planning, effective execution, and continuous follow-up, PNG is poised to unlock its tourism potential,” said Dr Lee.
TPA’s Executive Manager for Marketing and Promotions, Joel Keimelo, shared his insights on the event’s impact and future prospects.
“The China Ready Roadshow not only promoted PNG as an attractive tourist destination but also laid the groundwork for future partnerships and growth in the Chinese market. Focus was also given to Port Moresby as the gateway to the country and with direct flights from Guangzhou (with China Southern Airlines) and Hong Kong (with Air Niugini) respectively, we will certainly see Chinese travellers to PNG.
The Chinese market, characterized by a preference for leisure and soft adventure activities, presents vast opportunities for PNG. However, addressing specific needs such as visa requirements, direct flight routes, and cost-effective airfares remains crucial and also ensuring translation services and meeting Chinese tourists’ preferences are vital steps toward a successful market entry,” said Keimelo.
Keimelo further elaborated on the structured approach adopted by PNGTPA.
“The China Ready Program, adopted by the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), is making significant strides in preparing PNG for an influx of Chinese visitors. The program follows a four-stage process: Destination Audit, Industry Workshop, Accreditation, and Distribution. This structured approach is designed to ensure that PNG becomes visitor-ready not only for the Chinese market but also for other international tourists,” said Keimelo.
Addressing one of the key challenges faced during the roadshow, Keimelo highlighted the team’s efforts to overcome the language barrier.
“One of the key challenges addressed during the roadshow was the language barrier. To overcome this, the team organized translations of brochures and business cards and ensured that translators were available at each table during the B2B sessions. This initiative facilitated clear communication and helped Chinese agents better understand PNG’s tourism offerings,” said Keimelo.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman, highlighted the significant progress and future steps for PNG’s tourism industry.
“Through these strategic efforts, TPA is effectively positioning Papua New Guinea as a prime destination for Chinese tourists, ensuring that the country meets the specific needs and preferences of this growing market,” said Uvovo.
He emphasized the importance of understanding and catering to the unique requirements of Chinese travellers to enhance their experience in PNG. Uvovo also outlined the roadmap for maintaining this momentum.
“Following the successful roadshow, the next steps involve nationwide destination audits, workshops, and accreditation to ensure comprehensive readiness across PNG. Establishing a Destination Marketing Representative (DMR) office in China is under consideration to maintain connections and support ongoing promotional efforts,” Uvovo explained.
Looking ahead, TPA’s focus will be on several key initiatives. Firstly, the organization is committed to implementing a comprehensive China Digital Marketing Plan to effectively reach and engage Chinese travellers.
Secondly, exploring the establishment of a dedicated TPA China Office to strengthen PNG’s presence and support in the Chinese market. Additionally, TPA will also be implement a PNG-CHINA Tourism Year 2025, marking the 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinea’s independence. This initiative aims to celebrate PNG’s cultural richness and strengthen bilateral tourism ties between PNG and China. ◼️
📸 Above banner image: Papua New Guinea tourism roadshow participants in Guangzhou, China, June 2024.
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