IN a concerted effort to bolster sustainable tourism across the Pacific, the South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) partnered with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) for a significant initiative. The focal point of this collaboration was a
comprehensive weeklong workshop held in mid-May in Port Moresby, aimed at enhancing
data initiatives and implementing the Digital Measurement and Benchmarking Dashboard under the Pacific Digital Transformation Project (PDTP).
Funded by the New Zealand Government through the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI), this initiative aims to collect and analyze tourism data to inform strategic planning and policymaking. Key components include the International Visitor Survey (IVS), Business Confidence Index (BCI), and Community Attitude Survey (CAS), providing crucial insights into visitor behavior, industry trends, and community perspectives on tourism.
The workshop convened 15 participants equipped with tools to conduct robust research within PNG’s tourism sector. Claire Kupo, Executive Manager of PNGTPA, emphasized the pivotal role of data in shaping informed decisions and policies conducive to sustainable tourism development. CEO Eric Mossman Uvovo reiterated the importance of collaboration with SPTO in leveraging data-driven insights to advance tourism not only in PNG but across the Pacific.
Christopher Cocker, CEO of SPTO, underscored the workshop’s significance in enhancing research capabilities essential for steering sustainable tourism practices in the region. Participants, including PNGTPA’s Research and Statistics Officer Abigail Pangwinyen, praised the workshop for enhancing
their analytical skills and fostering collaboration among tourism stakeholders.
The PTDI project spans ten Pacific countries and aims to strengthen evidence-based planning and decision-making in tourism. With a mandate encompassing 21 government members and a diverse private-sector base, SPTO remains committed to advancing sustainable tourism development throughout the Pacific region. This collaborative effort underscores PNG’s dedication to harnessing tourism as a catalyst for economic growth while preserving the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
In the dynamic realm of tourism development, initiatives like the recent collaboration between the South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) and the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) represent crucial milestones. The weeklong workshop focusing on data initiatives and
the Digital Measurement and Benchmarking Dashboard highlights a strategic shift towards
evidence-based planning and sustainable tourism practices.
Tourism is not merely about attracting visitors; it’s about managing growth responsibly, preserving cultural heritage, and protecting natural environments. The Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI), supported by the New Zealand Government, plays a pivotal role in this endeavor by providing essential tools for informed decision-making. Through initiatives like the International Visitor Survey (IVS) and the Business Confidence Index (BCI), stakeholders gain deep insights into visitor preferences and industry trends, guiding policy frameworks that balance economic benefits with environmental stewardship.
Such workshops empower local stakeholders, like PNGTPA’s Claire Kupo and participants such as Abigail Pangwinyen, to enhance their analytical skills and collaborate effectively within the tourism sector. This capacity building not only strengthens PNG’s tourism industry but also fosters regional
cooperation, essential for addressing common challenges and leveraging collective strengths.
The broader impact extends beyond data analysis. It reaffirms PNG’s commitment to sustainable development, aligning tourism growth with environmental conservation and community well-being. As tourism becomes increasingly competitive and sensitive to global trends, embracing digital tools
and data-driven strategies becomes imperative. These efforts not only attract international visitors seeking authentic experiences but also ensure that tourism benefits trickle down to local communities, promoting inclusive growth.
Initiatives like the SPTO-PNGTPA workshop set a precedent for effective collaboration and forward-thinking in Pacific tourism. By harnessing data and fostering regional partnerships, PNG not only enhances its tourism appeal but also sets a benchmark for sustainable tourism practices across the Pacific, paving the way for a vibrant, resilient tourism industry that benefits both present and future
generations.
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