Image Source: PNG Tourism Promotion Authority
The number of tourists visiting Papua New Guinea has seen a steady and healthy growth since 2005.
But there is so much potential for the tourism sector in PNG. This is why the International Finance Corporation (IFC) has partnered with the Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) of Papua New Guinea to undertake market research, in the next five months, that will help the government develop tourism and realise the sector’s potential over the next ten years.
They will conduct a tourism-demand assessment that will measure the size, travel patterns and economic value of current tourist arrivals in the country. It will assess the effectiveness of existing marketing activities and crucially, project volumes and value of potential arrivals with specific emphasis on high spending niche markets.
The projections will then guide government and private sector investments in tourism related infrastructure, products and services.
IFC’s Regional Manager for the Pacific, Tom Jacobs stated in a press release that the research will provide recommendations to the government to help it match tourism investment, development and marketing to target markets.
“Finding out what drives people to visit PNG and what is needed to bring more tourists – be it bird watchers, adventure seekers, or those attending cultural shows – will help grow existing holiday arrivals and create new markets in the future,” stated Jacobs.
In addition the study will provide specific market research and recommendations for East New Britain and Milne Bay.
PNG offers a diverse and unique visitor experience, with world-class diving, surfing, vast flora and fauna, rich cultural experiences, major walking tracks, as well as World War-II historical sites.
PNG Tourism Promotion Authority CEO Jerry Agus said that this report will build the case for necessary investment to grow niche markets that visit these attractions, leading to more jobs and opportunities for Papua New Guineans since hospitality is deeply rooted in local traditional communities.
