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From JICA volunteer in 1995 to longstanding tourism partner, Hideo Kamioka helped share Papua New Guinea with the world. PNGTPA honours his contribution.
The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Mr Hideo Kamioka, who passed away on 16 October 2026 in Osaka, Japan.
Mr Kamioka’s connection with Papua New Guinea began in 1995, when he arrived as a volunteer with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), serving with the Tourism Promotion Authority. That assignment grew into a longstanding commitment to the country, its people and its tourism industry.
In 2000, he established PNG Japan Ltd in Port Moresby. Through his work in tourism, he helped international visitors discover Papua New Guinea’s cultures, natural landscapes and diverse experiences, while strengthening connections between Papua New Guinea and Japan.
From 2007, he worked closely with PNGTPA as an industry partner, supporting the promotion of Papua New Guinea to international markets.
His work also extended to the Highlands through the company’s Goroka office, supporting visitors travelling between the Highlands, Lae and Madang along the Highlands Highway. These efforts helped showcase tourism experiences beyond the country’s major centres.
Papua New Guinea also became a second home, where he met his wife, Emily, raised a family and formed lasting friendships. Alongside his professional contribution, he supported the Japanese community in Port Moresby.
PNGTPA remembers with gratitude his years of service, partnership and dedication to sharing Papua New Guinea with the world.
On behalf of its Board, Management and Staff, PNGTPA extends heartfelt sympathies to his wife Emily, their children Mio and Masaki, the Kamioka family, his colleagues at PNG Japan and PNG Explorers International, and all who knew him.
His passing is a great loss to Papua New Guinea’s tourism community. His contribution to tourism and to the friendship between our two countries will be remembered with appreciation.
May he rest in eternal peace.◼️
The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) has announced a ferry initiative as part of its efforts to support marine tourism and promote the country’s coastal, island and water-based visitor experiences.
PNGTPA Chief Executive Officer, Mr Eric Mossman Uvovo, made the announcement during the Gala Dinner at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby, marking the conclusion of the two-day PNG Tourism Summit and Trade Exhibition 2026.
Mr Uvovo said the initiative reflected the importance of exploring opportunities to develop Papua New Guinea’s marine tourism potential.
“Papua New Guinea is blessed with an extensive coastline, beautiful islands, rich marine environments and unique coastal cultures. These assets present significant opportunities to develop tourism experiences that benefit our communities, tourism operators and the wider economy,” Mr Uvovo said.
The announcement highlights marine tourism as an area of opportunity for Papua New Guinea’s tourism industry.
Coastal and island destinations offer visitors opportunities to experience marine environments, traditional coastal lifestyles and distinctive island cultures.
Supporting the development of these experiences can create opportunities for local communities, encourage tourism investment and help operators diversify the activities available to domestic and international travellers.
The announcement also reflects discussions at the 2026 PNG Tourism Summit and Trade Exhibition, where government representatives, tourism operators, industry leaders, investors, cultural representatives and development partners considered opportunities for tourism growth and collaboration.
Mr Uvovo said PNGTPA remained committed to working with industry stakeholders and partners to promote the country’s tourism assets and support the sector’s continued development.
Through initiatives that highlight Papua New Guinea’s natural and cultural attractions, PNGTPA aims to strengthen destination awareness and encourage visitors to explore the country’s diverse tourism experiences.◼️
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) has announced plans to develop a Tourism Super App to help domestic and international travellers discover, plan and experience Papua New Guinea.
The National Tourism Digital Platform (NTDP), which supports tourism business registration and the collection of industry information, will inform the development of the proposed Super App.
PNGTPA Chief Executive Officer, Mr Eric Mossman Uvovo, announced the Super App initiative during the Gala Dinner at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby, following the conclusion of the two-day PNG Tourism Summit and Trade Exhibition 2026.
The proposed app is envisioned as a central digital platform bringing together destination information, cultural experiences and relevant travel services.
Mr Uvovo said the initiative would support efforts to modernise tourism promotion and make destination information easier for travellers to access.
“The way people discover destinations and plan their travel is changing. We must embrace digital innovation to make Papua New Guinea more accessible to travellers and ensure visitors can find the information they need to explore our country with greater convenience and confidence,” Mr Uvovo said.
The NTDP will help PNGTPA build a more structured information base about tourism businesses and services, informing the development of the Super App and supporting wider industry engagement.
PNGTPA’s IT and Marketing teams are working together on a clear registration pathway from the Authority’s existing website to the NTDP, supported by information to guide businesses through the process.
A proposed registration and approval workflow is being prepared for management’s review and approval. This will define how business registrations move through submission, verification and approval, and identify responsibilities at each stage.
The teams are also exploring potential integration between the NTDP and PNGTPA’s existing website to share approved business information and reduce duplicate content maintenance.
The platform is intended to accommodate travel agents and wholesalers interested in selling Papua New Guinea through a dedicated subcategory under Tourism Support Services. Proposed information requirements include company details, source markets, Papua New Guinea products sold, and interest in training or marketing opportunities.
These arrangements could support stronger travel trade relationships and inform future training and promotional activities.
The proposed Super App aims to help travellers explore Papua New Guinea’s diverse tourism offerings, including cultural festivals, traditional village experiences, adventure activities, marine attractions, nature-based experiences and hospitality services.
It is also envisioned to support access to real-time safety information, helping visitors make informed decisions when planning and undertaking their journeys.
For tourism operators and service providers, the initiative could create opportunities to showcase their products and experiences to a wider audience.
Once the NTDP registration workflow and support arrangements are approved, PNGTPA’s IT and Marketing teams will coordinate website information, social media announcements and direct industry communications to explain the portal’s purpose and how to use it.
The initiatives reflect PNGTPA’s efforts to strengthen industry information and support while improving the way visitors discover and experience Papua New Guinea.◼️
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Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) Chief Executive Officer, Mr Eric Mossman Uvovo, has reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s commitment to regional tourism cooperation following the country’s hosting of the 68th APEC Tourism Working Group Meeting.
Mr Uvovo thanked delegates and tourism representatives from across the Asia-Pacific region for participating in discussions on tourism development, shared challenges and opportunities for collaboration.
“Beyond our formal discussions, this gathering has been an opportunity to build connections, share stories, strengthen friendships across borders, and bring our economies closer together through our common commitment to tourism development,” Mr Uvovo said.
The meeting was held alongside the PNG Tourism Summit & Trade Exhibition 2026, bringing regional tourism representatives together with Papua New Guinea’s domestic tourism industry.
Mr Uvovo said the two gatherings demonstrated the value of connecting national tourism priorities with regional experiences, international best practices and shared knowledge.
He highlighted Session 5 of the Summit as an opportunity to connect Papua New Guinea’s domestic tourism agenda with broader regional discussions, acknowledging the contribution of Thailand’s representatives in facilitating the engagement.
“As Papua New Guinea continues to advance its tourism development agenda, we recognise the value of learning from our APEC partners. We also look forward to contributing our own experiences, perspectives and unique tourism opportunities to the wider Asia-Pacific region,” he said.
Mr Uvovo emphasised that continued engagement with APEC partners would support the exchange of ideas and meaningful cooperation across the region.
He also encouraged visiting delegates to experience Papua New Guinea’s extraordinary landscapes, rich cultural heritage and welcoming communities.
He expressed hope that the relationships established during the meeting would lead to practical outcomes for tourism development throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
“May the connections and friendships formed here continue beyond this meeting, translating into stronger partnerships and meaningful cooperation for tourism across our region.”◼️
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) has thanked the PNG Tourism Summit & Trade Exhibition 2026 sponsors and partners whose financial and in-kind contributions helped deliver the Summit and Trade Exhibition, held on 13–14 October at APEC Haus in Port Moresby.
The event brought together government representatives, industry leaders, tourism operators, investors and development partners to discuss opportunities for tourism development, investment and sustainable growth.
Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) led the sponsorship contributions as Platinum Sponsor, contributing K250,000.
Gold Sponsors contributed K100,000 each:
Bronze Sponsors contributed K50,000 each:
PNGTPA Chief Executive Officer, Mr Eric Mossman Uvovo, thanked the sponsors for supporting a national platform for collaboration and tourism development.
“On behalf of the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority, I extend our sincere gratitude to MRDC for leading the way as our Platinum Sponsor, and to all our Gold and Bronze Sponsors for their generous contributions towards the PNG Tourism Summit & Trade Exhibition 2026.”
PNGTPA also acknowledged the in-kind contributions of Telikom PNG Limited, the National Museum and Art Gallery, National Cultural Commission, Pacific Industries – Pepsi PNG, Jack’s PNG Ltd, PNG Air, Air Niugini, Coral Sea Hotels, Crowne Plaza Residences, Port Moresby Nature Park, Alibi Bar & Grill, Sidaam Restaurant, Paradise Foods Limited, Loloata Island Resort, Lamana Hotel and Ela Motors.
Their support helped meet transport, logistics, accommodation, cultural programming and other operational requirements for the Summit and Trade Exhibition.
“We also acknowledge our supporting partners whose financial, logistical, transport, accommodation, cultural and institutional assistance helped make this important national event possible. Your contributions reflect a shared belief in the potential of tourism to create employment, attract investment, empower local communities and support sustainable economic development,” said Mr Uvovo.
The Summit provided opportunities to exchange ideas on destination marketing, infrastructure, cultural heritage, hospitality and sustainable tourism, while encouraging greater private sector participation in the industry.
Mr Uvovo emphasised that continued cooperation between government, industry, development partners and local communities would be essential to building a strong and sustainable tourism sector.
“The support demonstrated by our sponsors and partners is greatly appreciated. We look forward to building on these relationships and continuing to work together to create opportunities for our people, strengthen local businesses and grow tourism as an important pillar of Papua New Guinea’s economy,” Mr Uvovo said.◼️
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The Special Economic Zones Authority (SEZA) and the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation on sustainable tourism development and investment within Papua New Guinea’s Special Economic Zones.
Signed on 17 August 2026, the MoU establishes a framework for the two organisations to collaborate on tourism investment, regulatory coordination and sustainable economic growth within the Kokopo Tourism Zone and other designated tourism-focused Special Economic Zones.
The partnership supports the One-Stop-Shop framework established under the Special Economic Zones Authority Act 2019. Through this framework, SEZA coordinates with relevant government agencies to facilitate investment, streamline regulatory processes and improve the delivery of services to investors operating within Special Economic Zones.
By combining SEZA’s investment facilitation mandate with PNGTPA’s tourism development and destination-marketing expertise, the partnership aims to create a more coordinated environment for attracting responsible tourism investment and supporting the growth of a globally competitive tourism sector.
Under the MoU, SEZA and PNGTPA will work together within their respective mandates to support:
The partnership is expected to attract greater tourism-related investment into Special Economic Zones and accelerate the development of the Kokopo Tourism Zone as a premier tourism and investment destination.
It will also help investors access coordinated government services, strengthen sustainable tourism practices and support the protection of Papua New Guinea’s cultural and natural heritage.
Other anticipated benefits include increased international visibility for Papua New Guinea’s tourism destinations, closer collaboration between tourism and economic-development institutions, and the creation of employment and business opportunities for local communities.
The collaboration reflects the shared commitment of SEZA and PNGTPA to position tourism as an important driver of economic diversification, regional development, foreign investment and inclusive growth in Papua New Guinea.
SEZA and PNGTPA will establish a Joint Tourism Special Economic Zone Taskforce comprising representatives from both organisations and relevant stakeholders.
The taskforce will oversee the implementation of the MoU, develop strategic action plans, monitor progress and coordinate investor-engagement activities and other initiatives supporting sustainable tourism development within Special Economic Zones.
The two organisations will also collaborate on digital investment-facilitation tools, investor-information platforms and coordinated tourism-promotion activities in accordance with applicable laws, policies and institutional mandates.◼️
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting cultural events that preserve Papua New Guinea’s rich heritage while creating opportunities for tourism, investment and economic development.
Speaking at the official opening of the 2026 Enga Cultural Show on Friday, 7 August, at Aipus Oval in Wabag, PNGTPA Chief Executive Officer Eric Mossman Uvovo called for stronger collaboration among communities, government agencies, cultural institutions and tourism stakeholders to protect and promote the province’s cultural heritage.
Mr Uvovo acknowledged the Enga Provincial Government, event organisers, cultural groups, community leaders and participants for their continued commitment to keeping the annual cultural celebration alive.
“We are working closely with the National Cultural Commission and our people and communities to ensure that our culture continues to be respected, protected and promoted,” Mr Uvovo said.
He emphasised that PNGTPA was working alongside the National Cultural Commission, provincial authorities, communities and tourism industry stakeholders to promote Papua New Guinea’s cultures, landscapes, people and visitor experiences to wider domestic and international audiences.
“Culture is one of Papua New Guinea’s greatest tourism assets. It provides an important opportunity to showcase our traditional dances, customs, knowledge, identity and ways of life to visitors from across the country and overseas,” he said.
Mr Uvovo also stressed that peace, stability and law and order were essential to unlocking Enga’s tourism potential.
“Enga has the culture, the people and the beautiful environment to become a major tourism destination. But for tourism to grow, we must have peace, stability and law and order,” he said.
He encouraged community members and leaders to work together to create a safe and welcoming environment for visitors, tourism operators and investors.
A stable and secure environment, he noted, would help attract investment and generate employment, business and income opportunities for local communities.
The 2026 Enga Cultural Show brought together cultural groups and communities for two days of traditional performances and displays, celebrating Enga’s distinctive identity while showcasing the province’s tourism potential.
PNGTPA remains committed to strengthening the connection between culture, tourism, investment and economic development. Through continued collaboration, the Authority aims to support communities in preserving their heritage while creating sustainable opportunities for the people of Enga and Papua New Guinea.◼️
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) officially launched the Papua New Guinea National Tourism Policy (NTP) 2025–2045 on Tuesday 18 November at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby.
The launch signifies the culmination of more than a year of extensive nationwide consultations across the public and private sectors, academia, non-governmental organizations, and community representatives.
Developed with the support from Pacific Private Sector Development Initiative (PSDI), an Asian Development Bank technical assistance program undertaken in partnership with the governments of Australia and New Zealand, the review of the NTP 1995 was conducted in December 2022, followed by Key Informant Interviews and regional consultations in 2023. An Issues Paper was developed to guide the policy drafting and a National Tourism Policy Stakeholder Validation workshop was facilitated in December the same year. Following the validation, the draft NTP 2025-2045 was put through numerous rounds of technical vetting before obtaining endorsement from the National Executive Council in August 2025.
The NTP 2025-2045 serves as a guide for whole-of-government efforts to achieve a multistakeholder shared tourism vision. It will be implemented through the Tourism Sector Development Plans (TSDP) convened by the Authority every five years, outlining specific agreed medium term strategic actions for all public, private and community stakeholders. The NTP 2025-2045 is framed around fifteen (15) Policy Areas comprising five (5) cross-cutting themes and ten (10) tourism enabling functions.
Policy Areas by Cross-cutting Themes -1) Environmental Sustainability, 2) Cultural Heritage Preservation and Promotion, 3) Empowerment of Resource Custodians, 4) Inclusive Economic Growth and 5) Resilience Building.
Policy Areas by Tourism-enabling Functions – 6) Tourism Sector Governance, 7) Air Connectivity, 8) Hub-based Destination Development, 9) Niche-based Visitor Experience Development, 10)
Investment in Tourism Supply, 11) Public Infrastructure and Services, 12) Tourism Industry Standards, 13) Workforce Development, 14) Destination Marketing and 15) Visitor Entry and Safety.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, described the policy as a transformative roadmap for tourism in Papua New Guinea.
“The launch of the National Tourism Policy marks a new chapter in our tourism journey as a nation.
This policy provides the strategic direction needed to position Papua New Guinea as a leading nation in tourism, a country that celebrates its rich cultural diversity, pristine natural environment, and authentic adventure experiences,” said Uvovo.
Mr. Uvovo emphasized that the policy’s implementation will focus on strengthening partnerships between government agencies, provincial authorities, tourism operators, and local communities.
He also highlighted the importance of building resilient tourism infrastructure, promoting investment, and supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) within the tourism industry.
The launch event was officiated by the Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture Honorable Belden Norman Namah and attended by senior government officials, industry leaders, development partners, and representatives from across the country.
The PNG National Tourism Policy 2025–2045 provides a long-term vision to ensure that tourism contributes meaningfully to national development, creates employment opportunities, supports cultural preservation, and enhances the well-being of communities throughout the country.◼️
For more information and a copy of the PNG NTP 2025-2045, please email: psp@papuanewguinea.travel
The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) launched its Hello Poro Tourism Campaign alongside the 50th Independence Destination Tour Packages on Friday 5 September 2025 at Kwalimu Haus, Waigani in Port Moresby.
The launch, held as part of the nation’s 50th Independence Day Anniversary celebrations, is a part of TPA’s initiative to encourage Papua New Guineans to explore their own home.
The Hello Poro Campaign is a storytelling-driven media initiative that will highlight Mt. Hagen, Kavieng, Port Moresby, and Wewak as hero destinations through TPA’s social media reels, YouTube content and booking-enabled websites.
Alongside the campaign, the 50th Independence Tour Packages will offer ten curated four-day packages across the four main tourism regions, each subsidised by 50 per cent to make travel more affordable and accessible. Partner operators include Buna Treks & Tours, Paiya Tours, Bougainville Experience, PNG Tour Guide, and others who are collaborating with PNGTPA to deliver these experiences.
These initiatives are expected to drive higher visitation during the Independence period from September to December 2025, increase visibility for local operators and SMEs, strengthen domestic tourism habits, engage communities in showing PNG’s culture and history Speaking at the event, TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo said the initiatives reflect TPA’s
commitment to strengthening the tourism brand, boosting visitor engagement, supporting SMEs, and encouraging greater domestic travel.
“Tourism tells the story of who we are as Papua New Guineans – diverse, united, and welcoming. Hello Poro shows our people, our culture, and our destinations with authenticity and pride, while the subsidised Independence Tour Packages ensure that more people, both here at home and abroad, can share in these experiences. This is an investment in our long-term growth as a tourism nation,” said Uvovo.
The launch event featured remarks from industry representatives, media partners, and tourism operators. Guests were treated to a preview of the campaign video, a showcase of the subsidised tour packages, entertainment by Wan Squad, and a prize draw.◼️
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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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Thank you for submitting your registration for the PNG Tourism Sector Legislation Review!
Spaces are limited per consultation, so only registered participants will be contacted.
Kind regards,
The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority
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