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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The Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), in partnership with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Industry Association (PNGTIA), announced the National Tourism Conference & Expo 2025.

The event will convene leading experts, industry stakeholders, and key decision-makers to explore critical issues, discuss emerging trends, and plan a sustainable course for the future of tourism in the country.

A significant highlight of the announcement was the presentation of the Platinum Sponsorship from Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) and its subsidiaries. MRDC, a major investor in tourism and hospitality and instrumental in bringing the international Hilton brand to Papua New Guinea, has demonstrated its commitment to the sector’s growth through the contribution.

Hon. Belden Norman Namah, Minister for Tourism, Arts & Culture, states the strategic importance of the conference within the broader context of Papua New Guinea’s development. “This National Tourism Conference is a key component of the PNG Tourism Sector Development Plan, which recognises tourism as a vital renewable resource,” said Minister Namah. “This conference will serve as a catalyst, awakening the immense potential of the tourism industry and encouraging Papua New Guineans to recognise the ‘pot of gold’ that exists within this sector.”

Mr. Eric Mossman Uvovo, CEO of the TPA, remarked on the significance of the conference for industry stakeholders, “The PNG Tourism Industry Association, represent over 60 members, including hoteliers, transport providers, tour operators, artisans, and trekking companies. The conference serves as a vital conduit for facilitating knowledge exchange and driving the development of actionable strategies to promote sustainable growth. Additionally, the conference will feature an exposition open to the public, allowing people to explore and understand more about the diverse packages offered.”

Mr. Augustine Mano, Managing Director of MRDC, explained MRDC recognises the immense, long-term potential of the tourism sector to contribute to Papua New Guinea’s economic diversification and sustainable development. Mr Mano explained, “Our investment in this conference, along with our broader commitment to tourism and hospitality through initiatives like the Hilton brand and infrastructure development in the communities we serve, reflects our vision for a future beyond extractive industries.”

“Tourism can complement extractive resources, as it offers a lasting benefit for our people. That’s why our investments, in aviation, finance, healthcare, real estate, power generation, all contribute to building a foundation that supports and promotes tourism. This conference will be instrumental in shaping that sustainable future and helping our communities thrive in the tourism industry.” Mr Mano said.

The National Tourism Conference will address a wide range of critical topics, including sustainable tourism development, destination marketing, cultural preservation, infrastructure development, and community engagement. It will provide a valuable forum for participants to network, share best practices, and collaborate on initiatives to enhance Papua New Guinea’s tourism offerings.

Further details about the conference, including dates, venue, and registration information, will be released soon.

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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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An employee from the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) represented the country’s Tourism sector at the 16th UTM-UN training in Macao late last year to enhance PNG’s digital innovation in the tourism industry.

TPA’s Digital Marketing Officer for Website, Craig Kaviagu joined more than 40 participants from the Asia Pacific Region in the digital training program hosted on Monday 18 to Friday 21 November 2024.

Kaviagu highlighted the transformative role of technology in promoting tourism in PNG.

“Technology allows us to reach the other side of the world almost instantly.”

In PNG we need a strong digital system involving government departments, industry players, and SMEs to allow us to identify trends across sectors, improving decision-making and targeted strategies,” said Kaviagu.

Kaviagu explored the practical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing tourism experiences.

“While infrastructure limitations remain, we cannot afford to delay, as technology evolves rapidly with the current use of AI, which can streamline bottleneck processes that assist travellers and tour operators,” said Kaviagu.

The training was facilitated through the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and University of Macao’s (UTM) joint training program. It is designed to provide professionals in the tourism industry with valuable insights and skills related to tourism marketing, digital transformation, and current global trends.

TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo commended Craig for his valuable knowledge gained through the training program emphasizing on the importance of investing in people.

“There is a need to upskill our current human resources and our industry, educating the next generation. Closing the digital literacy gap and preparing for jobs of the future are vital steps for PNG’s tourism sector to grow and change,” said Uvovo.

TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo acknowledged the challenges of implementing technology in PNG.

“We do have issues like infrastructure limitations, digital literacy gaps, but despite these challenges there is a huge opportunity if we act now to bridge these gaps,” said Uvovo.

The training also provided actionable insights for immediate application, which TPA sees the potential for AI to enhance efficiency without replacing human roles in the industry and training industry members to be well equipped to use AI-driven processes.

Uvovo also supports launching digital literacy workshops for local tourism operators aimed at establishing a strong digital presence, equipping operators with skills in social media management, website management, and running online advertisements.

Looking ahead, Uvovo envisions a tourism sector that integrates technology, culture, and the environment.

“We must ensure our traditions and natural surroundings thrive alongside technological advancements to promote PNG’s million different journeys,” he said.

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Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority’s (TPA) HR and Payroll Officer praised TPA for supporting his achievement in completing his Associate Degree in Human Resource Management in November last year.

51-year-old, Marley Heai, shared his journey and insights following the completion of his Associate Degree from the PNG Human Resource Institute in Port Moresby. His inspiring story demonstrates TPA’s commitment to professional growth and the organization’s passion for creating a positive impact in the workplace.

“I was inspired to pursue an Associate Degree in Human Resource Management due to my passion for helping people develop and succeed in their careers,” explained Marley.

His fascination with workplace culture and the crucial role HR plays in promoting a positive environment motivated him to seek formal education in the field.

Marley’s studies equipped him with essential skills such as conflict resolution, communication, and employee engagement strategies. These skills have been invaluable in his role at TPA, where he applies his expertise to recruitment, training, and performance management.

One course that particularly resonated with Marley was Organizational Behaviour.

“It was a deep understanding into the psychology of employees and the factors that influence their performance,” Marley shared.

This knowledge has directly contributed to his ability to understand team dynamics and implement strategies to boost morale and productivity.

As a HR and Payroll Officer, Marley emphasizes accuracy and efficiency in processing employee salaries and benefits.

He uses a combination of manual calculations and automated payroll software to minimize errors and conducts regular audits to ensure compliance.

He also emphasized the use of open communication with employees and clear guidelines to further enhance his approach to each member’s of TPA’s dynamic team.

Marley stays informed on labour laws and tax regulations in Papua New Guinea through his own initiative in subscribing to legal newsletters, participation in workshops, and networking with HR professionals. He also uses government publications to ensure he has the most current information.

Marley remains committed to professional growth, expressing interest in pursuing certifications such as the Certified Payroll Professional (CPP). He is also exploring training in employment law and HR analytics to strengthen his expertise further.

Beyond his payroll responsibilities, Marley’s goals are to advancing TPA’s mission.

“I aim to contribute to talent development initiatives and employee engagement strategies that align with the organization’s goals to enhance local tourism and employees in TPA,” he said.

TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo commended Marley’s on his achievement adding this the knowledge gain will benefit the workforce in TPA.

“Congratulations to Marley on his outstanding achievement in obtaining an Associate Degree in Human Resource Management. His initiative to mentor colleagues and conduct informational sessions on payroll systems and benefits has created a supportive environment where all TPA employees feel empowered to seek clarification and grow their understanding,” said Uvovo.

Uvovo also added that Marley’s journey demonstrates TPA’s commitment to capacity building in the workforce.

“His contributions continue to make a positive impact within TPA, inspiring others to pursue their own professional development. As we strive to promote and develop the tourism industry in Papua New Guinea, it is my team here at TPA that will carry excellence and the organization’s mission and vision,” said Uvovo.

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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) marked Father’s Day in a special celebration at the TPA office on Friday 30 August, Port Moresby.

The event, which honored the themes of strength, love, and sacrifice, brought together more than thirty male employees, including the organization’s CEO and their female team members in a heartwarming tribute to fathers everywhere.

The celebration was a time of reflection and appreciation, as the TPA team gathered to recognize the vital role fathers play in both their personal and professional lives. The event highlighted the qualities that are often associated with fatherhood, paying homage to the dedication and commitment shown by fathers in their families and communities.

The day concluded with special remarks from the CEO, Executive Managers, and other staff members. Each speaker took a moment to commemorate the day, offering heartfelt tributes to all fathers—both those present and those who have passed.

Png Tourism Staff Fathers Day 30thaug2024 2
Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo with TPA’s male employees cutting their Father’s Day cake during their Father’s Day celebration.

TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, emphasized the importance of celebrating fatherhood and acknowledged the hard work and dedication of all fathers.

“Our fathers are the pillars of strength in our lives, and today we honour their love, sacrifice, and support. As we celebrate Father’s Day, we also reflect on the values that drive us forward as an organization—values of dedication, resilience, and care, which are so often exemplified by those great men that have shaped our lives,” said Uvovo.

Uvovo also highlighted the importance of celebrating such events.

“By celebrating Father’s Day in this way, TPA not only recognized the contributions of its male employees but also reinforced the importance of family and community in our organization,” said Uvovo.

 

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Press Statement

Tourism Ambassador Justin Olam Commences Promotional Engagement with PNG Tourism Promotion Authority

On behalf of the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority board, management and staff, I am pleased to officially announce Papua New Guinea’s tourism brand ambassador, Justin Olam. 

Justin recently travelled to PNG and started working with our PNG TPA team on our planned activities and campaigns for this year.

Given the short time with us, he was able to visit some Port Moresby attractions and also travel to Kokopo, East New Britain.

Justin Olam is a remarkable Papua New Guinean athlete who is well-known and respected throughout Papua New Guinea, Australia and the Pacific, as a professional rugby league footballer who currently plays as the Centre for the Melbourne Storm in the Australian National Rugby League.

Tourism in Papua New Guinea has endured a lot of set-backs in recent years – especially with the effects of the COVID-19 global pandemic, climate change, and the rise in social law-and-order issues.   Our international and domestic image as a travel destination has hit an all-time low.

In 2022, our Visitor Arrivals Report recorded 69,376 international visitors. Our highest number of annual arrivals was in 2019, when we had 210,980 visitors.

As the national tourism office representing our tourism sector, we continue to show our resilience and commitment despite the economic and social stumbling blocks we continuously face.

The PNGTPA remains true to its mandated role as a non-revenue earning government body, which is to market, promote and develop tourism in Papua New Guinea.

Guided by our Tourism Sector Development Plan (TSDP 2022 – 2026), we are dedicated to developing sustainable marketing campaigns that enhance the image of our destination, as well as encourage travel and tourism in our great nation.

The PNGTPA’s engagement of Justin Olam as our country’s official tourism brand ambassador is one of many crucial steps my organisation is taking to actively promote and market our unique destination, Papua New Guinea – the land of ‘A Million Different Journeys’.

Justin Olam will be engaged as our tourism brand ambassador for a period of 12-months.  In the coming days and months, we will be developing content for our tourism ambassador campaign across the country.

Our marketing campaign messages involving Justin Olam will take the form of TV and online video and print media.   There are two main objectives to our tourism brand ambassador campaign:

  • Welcome and Destination Brand Messages: targeting both our domestic and international travellers, particularly our Australian market;
  • Social Impact Messages: targeting the general public in Papua New Guinea.

The tourism brand ambassador campaign will be launched next month in August 2023.

We welcome everyone’s support for our tourism brand ambassador Justin Olam, especially our tourism campaign – because we believe that ‘Tourism is Everyone’s Business’. 

Yours in Tourism,
Mr. Eric Mossman Uvovo
Chief Executive Officer
PNG Tourism Promotion Authority

For further information please email acting director marketing, Ms. Alice Kuaningi alice.kuaningi@papuanewguinea.travel | phone: +675 320-0211 

Tourism Promotion Authority Announces Appointment of New Board Members 

ON Wednesday 31st August, 2022, new board members were welcomed at a swearing in ceremony at the Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) office, Down Town, Port Moresby.  

Magistrate Sandy Tiakin facilitated the legal oaths and affirmations of the ceremony, wherein the new members swore to uphold their awarded roles and duties, while upholding the mission and values of the PNGTPA.

Joining the PNGTPA Board are key industry heads: Mr. Andrew Abel, Mrs Keryn Hargreaves, Mr. Michael Cassell, Mr. Willie Gagma, Captain Andui Koralyo, Mr. John Pung and Mr. Dominic Ira.

The new board members represent Papua New Guinea’s tourism sector, including the airlines, tour operators, attractions, hotelier industry, as well as government and financial institutions.

Also present at the new board members swearing-in were PNGTPA’s CEO Mr. Eric Mossman Uvovo and senior management: Director Corporate Affairs Ms. Abuti Kevin, Director Policy & Planning Ms. Ingrid Kuman and Director Marketing Research & Promotions Ms. Alice Kuaningi.  

For further information, contact the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority, Office of the CEO: cleopatra.aramanat@papuanewguinea.travel   

Papua New Guinea Tourism Board Members 2

Image (L-R): Michael Cassell, Hon. Kennedy Wenge, Willie Gagma, Hon. Isi Leonard, Magistrate Sandy Tiakin, Eric Mossman Uvovo, Keryn Hargreaves, John Pung, Captain Andui Koralyo and Abuti Kevin. 

Tourism Update: Papua New Guinea Tourism Since the Borders Officially Opening 

Papua New Guinea officially opened its borders to international visitors on the 1st July 2022, and visitor arrivals from January to August 2022 show that the country has received 37,537 visitors – 2,182 of these visitors were here on holiday. 

Obtaining a tourist visa remains a challenge for bona fide tourists as the 60-day tourist visa on arrival is no longer available.  The PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) will be working closely with the PNG Immigration and Citizenship Authority to reinstate the tourist visa-on-arrival facility to encourage international travellers to visit Papua New Guinea.  Meanwhile, tour operators and agents must continue to comply with PNGICA requirements and apply online for their client’s tourist visas using the Immigration Authority’s website portal

All COVID-19 travel restrictions have been lifted by the Government since 5th October 2022, the most recent being the vaccine test entry requirement for travelers, and the wearing of masks inside airports.

PNGTPA is aware that COVID-19 has become endemic – meaning the world is learning to live with the disease.  Therefore, through the Safe Traveller PNG awareness program, the PNGTPA continues to advocate for the health and safety of the members of PNG’s tourism industry and visitors in the country.  Industry members volunteer to participate in the program by undergoing training, and are then certified and promoted through the PNGTPA website as a Safe Traveller PNG business that is equipped to provide a safe and healthy environment for their guests and clients. 

Since the lifting of the COVID-19 restrictions across the country, tourism in the country is slowly being revitalized, especially with the return of iconic national events like the Hagen Show, Frangipani Festival, Goroka Show and the recent Morobe Show in Lae.  These events have not only brought back international travellers to the country, but refocused a great deal of marketing and promotions towards PNG’s domestic market.

For Morobe Tourism in particular, especially the recent 59th Morobe Show, hundreds and thousands of people attended the two-day event hosted at the Lae Showgrounds.  Papua New Guinean show-goers came from the Highlands region, as well as from the Madang and Northern Provinces to attend, what is now becoming the nation’s biggest show with a strong focus on agritourism.   Morobe Show is one of the most well-run, self-sustaining events in Papua New Guinea, hosted by the Morobe Agricultural Society – a successful case study for all events and festivals in Papua New Guinea. 

Despite the Morobe Show’s success, there are many challenges ahead for tourism in the Morobe Province.  Developments of attractions and products in Lae and the wider and remote Morobe Province are key areas the PNGTPA wish to assist the province with.  However, the issue of a functioning provincial tourism office is vital in the bridging this assistance at a national level for tourism development in Morobe. The PNGTPA will be revisiting an MOU signed in 2018 by the Morobe Provincial Government and the Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture.  

In March this year, PNGTPA visited the districts of Nawae and Finschaffen to meet tourism product owners and service providers.  The team also carried out marketing awareness and delivered guest lectures to the students of the Poly Technical College in Lae. 

PNGTPA continues to market and promote Morobe as a travel destination in Papua New Guinea through its website: www.papuanewguinea.travel, particularly events like the Morobe Show, accommodation providers in Lae, as well as local tour operators like LaeAbout Tours and Fuzzy Wuzzy Expeditions

Morobe Attractions will be a significant part of PNGTPA’s online marketing and promotions next year, working with the Morobe Provincial Government will be a vital and necessary step in showcasing the best of one of PNG’s most vibrant industrial hubs. 

Papua New Guinea Morobe Show Rodeo Event 2

Image: Competitors at the Morobe Show rodeo style event. Lae city, Morobe Province. 

For further information email PNGTPA director marketing Ms. Alice Kuaningi: marketing@papuanewguinea.travel

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