Kulang: Cruise tourism to boost economy

 By MEMO HAUKE
TOURISM Minister Tobias Kulang says a report on the economic impact of tourism cruising to PNG is an economic booster for the country.
The study was commissioned by the Australian Government through its high commissioner Bruce Davis, World Bank Group member International Finance Corporation resident representative for PNG Gavin Murray and cruise operator Carnival Australia executive chairman Ann Sherry.
It looked at PNG five main ports –Alotau, Rabaul, Doini (Alotau), Kitava Island (Alotau) and Kiriwina Island (Alotau).
According to the study, cruise tourism injected A$5.9 million (K14 million) directly into Papua New Guinea in 2015.
It brought an estimated A$0.2 million in indirect economic benefits.
It provides recommendations on how the country can further grow the industry and provide more business and employment opportunities.
Cruise Tourism is a luxurious form of travelling, involving an all-inclusive holiday on a cruise ship.
The cruise ships call at several ports or cities for travellers to see, spend and explore.
Kulang said it was the first time the country has an in-depth analysis on the tourism sector and how it was impacting the industry.
“It is an exciting time,” Kulang said.
“This is a very important sector that drives a lot of perception and it is contributing to the PNG GDP.”