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The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) has released new insights into tourism trends for Papua New Guinea (PNG) through the International Visitor Survey (IVS) conducted from June to November 2023. This initiative, part of the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI), is crucial in collating and analyzing data to reflect current trends, challenges, and opportunities within the tourism sector.

The ongoing research by SPTO provides vital information for stakeholders to understand tourism patterns, enabling informed decision-making to bolster economic growth and sustainability across Pacific nations. The IVS for PNG gathered essential insights from visitors during this period. Using recent visitor email addresses provided by the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), the The Pacific Tourism Organisation ,Pacific Tourism Data Initiative team invited recent visitors to participate in the IVS to capture their feedback on visitor satisfaction, expenditure, and travel experiences.

A total of 993 participants, representing 941 adults and 144 children, contributed their experiences and perspectives, accounting for two percent of the total visitors to Papua New Guinea during this time. Between June and November 2023, PNG experienced approximately 60,277 international air arrivals. Based on IVS estimates, these visitors brought in an estimated $182 million USD.

Key Factors Influencing Travel to Papua New Guinea

Respondents cited several influential factors in their decision to travel to Papua New Guinea, including:

• Nature attractions, ecotourism, and photography opportunities
• Business and conference prospects
• Cultural experiences, including festivals and events
• Connections with friends and family in Papua New Guinea
• Historical aspects, such as war history

Visitor Expenditure and Economic Impact

The survey revealed that 46% of respondents were first-time visitors to Papua New Guinea, with an average annual household income of around USD 90,000. Feedback from respondents was overwhelmingly positive, with an average satisfaction rating of 4 out of 5. Additionally, 85% of respondents indicated they would recommend PNG as a travel destination, and 86% expressed their intention to return for a future visit.

The Annual IVS report, covering data from June 2023 to May 2024, is set for release in July 2024. A subsequent IVS report, covering data from January to June 2024, will be available by August 2024.

Statements from Key Officials

Eric Mossman Uvovo, CEO of PNGTPA, shared that the data would be instrumental in guiding the PNGTPA’s efforts to promote the country’s rich culture and natural treasures globally. “By understanding visitor trends and economic impacts, we can tailor our marketing campaigns to attract more tourists, strengthen economic growth, and create more job opportunities for our people. These insights will help us navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead, ensuring PNG continues to grow as a leading destination in the Pacific,” said Mr. Uvovo.

Chris Cocker, CEO of SPTO, emphasized that disseminating these findings empowers national tourism organizations (NTOs), local businesses, and governments. “By providing access to comprehensive data analyses, stakeholders can develop targeted initiatives that enhance visitor satisfaction and promote longer stays. Ultimately, the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative serves as an essential tool for fostering collaboration among various entities involved in tourism management and plays an integral role in shaping a resilient and thriving tourism landscape across the diverse nations of the Pacific region,” Mr. Cocker said.

About the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative

The Pacific Tourism Data Initiative data collection covers ten Pacific nations and is funded by the New Zealand Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT). The Pacific Tourism Data Initiative supports these nations in understanding and adapting to the evolving landscape of tourism, ensuring sustainable growth and positive impacts for communities, businesses, and visitors. The Pacific Tourism Data Initiative ’s research includes the International Visitor Survey (IVS), the Business Confidence Index (BCI), and the Community Attitudes Survey (CAS). These tools generate essential data that guide evidence-based decision-making by government tourism agencies and businesses in the Pacific. As of October 1, 2023, the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative has transitioned from the New Zealand Tourism Research Institute (NZTRI) at Auckland University of Technology (AUT) to the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO).