Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority’s (TPA) CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, has commended all industry members, stakeholders, and participants for their contributions to the successful staging of the National Tourism Conference & Expo 2025, held from Wednesday 9 April to Thursday 10 April at the Hilton Port Moresby Hotel & Residence in Port Moresby.

Through a statement, Uvovo expressed heartfelt appreciation to the national leaders, corporate sponsors, tourism operators, community representatives, and development partners who came together to honour five decades of tourism in Papua New Guinea under the theme “Honouring Our Past, Transforming Our Future: 50 Years of PNG Tourism.”

“This week’s events have been nothing short of extraordinary. We gathered not only to celebrate 50 years of tourism in our beautiful country, but to honour the visionaries, communities, and industry builders who laid the foundation for where we are today,” said Uvovo.

The event was also a tribute to three iconic figures who have shaped the course of tourism in the country — the late Sir Peter Barter, the late Mr. Max Benjamin, and Mr. Bob Bates. These individuals were honoured during the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Awards segment of the Gala Dinner.

TPA CEO, Mr. Eric Mossman Uvovo, acknowledged their lasting legacy and the profound impact of their work.

“We honour the families of these great pioneers who dedicated their lives to building Papua New Guinea’s tourism industry from the ground up. Their vision, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment continue to inspire us.

And to Mr. Bob Bates — the last strong man still standing in PNG’s tourism legacy — we salute you. Your resilience and lifelong service are a beacon for the generations to come,” said Uvovo.

The CEO acknowledged the generous support of the event sponsors, highlighting the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) and its subsidiaries as Platinum Sponsor.

“Your investment and belief in the future of PNG tourism empowered us to host this event and recognise the legends of our industry with the honour they deserve,” he said.

He also extended gratitude to the Gold Sponsors,’ OK Tedi Mining Limited and ExxonMobil PNG, and the Bronze Sponsors, the Department of National Planning & Monitoring and China CSCEC Steel (PNG) for their partnership and continued support in strengthening tourism in Papua New Guinea.

Over the two-day conference, more than 300 participants engaged in sector updates, strategic panel discussions, and keynote presentations from leading tourism and business figures. Day One focused on post-COVID recovery, sustainability, SME development, and access to finance, with compelling input from speakers such as Alan Manning, Moses Wai, Andrew Abel, Dominic Sikakau, Lloyd Piari, and Cheyne Benjamin.

Day Two shifted toward the future, featuring sessions on investment, infrastructure, connectivity, and destination marketing. Presenters included John Tuaim, Fantasha Lockington, Simon-Marc Brendling, Gibson Holemba, Dominic Kaumu, Walter Yangomina, Charlie Wanma, David Rawlings, Noor Ahmad Hamid, Hannah Pearson, and Dr. Marcus Lee.

“To everyone who participated, from SMEs and landowners to youth representatives and investors, thank you. You are the heartbeat of this industry. Your stories and energy are shaping a future that is sustainable, inclusive, and authentically Papua New Guinean,” said Uvovo.

He noted that the outcomes of the conference provide a strong platform for future international milestones including Expo Osaka 2025 and the PNG-China Tourism Year 2026, as well as renewed commitment to improving industry standards, financing access, and digital marketing strategies.

Uvovo also extended special thanks to the TPA organising team, the PNG Tourism Industry Association (PNGTIA), and all the behind-the-scenes staff whose hard work ensured a professional and meaningful event experience.

“As we close this week of celebration and reflection, I thank you all for believing in the power of tourism to connect people, preserve culture, and transform lives. Let us move forward with pride, unity, and a shared purpose to take PNG tourism into the next 50 years,” said Uvovo.

📸Photo Caption: (L-R) Tourism Promotion Authority CEO Mr. Eric Mossman Uvovo, Minister for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Hon. Belden Norman Namah, Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, and Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) Managing Director, Mr. Augustine S. Mano.