## Papua New Guinea’s Tourism Booms: New Reports Highlight Growth and Visitor Preferences
The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) and the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) have released exciting new reports showcasing the robust growth of Papua New Guinea’s tourism sector. These comprehensive reports, based on the International Visitor Survey (IVS), provide valuable insights into visitor preferences, spending patterns, and overall experiences in PNG.
The data collected from June 2023 to May 2024 reveals a significant 21% increase in visitor spending, generating an estimated USD 296 million for the country. This positive trend continued in the following period (January to June 2024) with a remarkable 40% growth, bringing the total visitor contribution to USD 150 million.
Beyond the economic benefits, the reports highlight a shift in visitor preferences. While business travel remains a significant driver for tourism in PNG, cultural experiences are gaining popularity. Visitors are drawn to the country’s vibrant traditions, including traditional dances, food preservation techniques, and historical architecture.
These findings demonstrate the growing appeal of PNG as a travel destination and underscore the vital role tourism plays in the country’s economic development. Eric Mossman Uvovo, CEO of PNGTPA, emphasized the importance of these insights in shaping the future of PNG’s tourism industry. “Understanding the motivations and preferences of our visitors is crucial for us to create a tourism experience that is both enjoyable and sustainable”, he stated.
The reports are the result of a collaboration between SPTO and the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI), funded by the New Zealand Government. This partnership aims to support sustainable tourism growth across PNG and the wider Pacific region. Christopher Cocker, SPTO CEO, highlighted the importance of tourism research in promoting sustainable development. “By understanding the data, we can ensure that tourism growth aligns with community and economic goals in Papua New Guinea and the Pacific region”, he said.
The reports offer valuable insights for tourism stakeholders in PNG, helping them to refine their strategies and cater to the evolving needs of international visitors. As PNG continues to embrace the tourism industry, these reports serve as a beacon of progress and pave the way for a thriving future for the sector.
