Papua New Guinea Travel Statistics Presented at UPNG Tourism Convention

The CEO of the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), Eric Mossman Uvovo, delivered insightful remarks at the 18th Tourism Convention at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) on Tuesday October 1st in Port Moresby. 

Addressing lecturers, students, and distinguished guests, Uvovo emphasized the critical role of government policy in promoting tourism as a key driver of economic growth in Papua New Guinea.  

Uvovo highlighted the immense potential of PNG’s tourism sector, describing the country as “a treasure trove of untapped potential,” with its rich cultural diversity and unique ecosystems.
“While tourism currently contributes only 1.2% to the country’s GDP, Uvovo explained that there is significant room for growth. Globally, tourism accounts for 10% of GDP, and PNG aims to increase its share to 3% by next year.  With the right investments and policies, the tourism industry could support over 50,000 jobs and make a substantial impact on the local economy,” said Uvovo.  

In his presentation, Uvovo outlined some of the key challenges facing the tourism industry in PNG, including law and order issues, limited infrastructure, and a lack of government investment.  

He noted that safety concerns and infrastructure limitations have impeded growth in the industry, especially as many of PNG’s top tourist destinations are located in remote areas with poor accessibility.  

Uvovo also emphasized that tourism development must be sustainable, with policies that protect the country’s cultural and environmental heritage for future generations.  

TPA has signed various collaborative agreements between government agencies as a means to overcoming these challenges.
“Partnerships with the Police to improve tourist safety and with the Ministry of Transport to upgrade airport infrastructure. Recent improvements at Tokua (Rabaul), Lae Airport and Jacksons (Port Moresby) airports are successful examples of policy-driven initiatives,” said Uvovo.  

Uvovo also presented recent travel statistics on the number of visitors coming into PNG by air and sea, noting that while international arrivals have grown by 15% since the launch of the National Tourism Strategy 2025, there is still much work to be done.  

Minister for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Hon. Belden Namah, delivered remarks at the convention, stressing the importance of tourism for PNG’s future.  

“Tourism is vital to Papua New Guinea’s economy and cultural preservation. Under my ministry and through the support of the government, we are working to make tourism a national priority by investing in infrastructure and promoting our incredible cultural and natural assets to the world. Our focus is on ensuring that tourism benefits all Papua New Guineans by creating jobs and promoting sustainable development,” said Minister Namah.◼️