Tourist numbers up, says authority

THE number of visitors, including tourists, more than doubled last year compared with 2022, bringing in around K400 million (US$120 million) to the country, according to the Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA).
The TPA’s 2023 visitor arrival report, and the PNG international visitor survey report, revealed an increase of visitors from 77,291 in 2022 to more than 140,000 last year.
Chief executive officer Eric Mossman Uvovo described tourism as an evolving industry.
“As we review the outcomes of the 2023 visitor arrival report and the PNG international visitor survey report, it is evident that PNG’s tourism landscape is evolving, with notable shifts in visitor demographics and market trends,” he said. Of particular significance is the increasing prominence of the Chinese market, which has emerged as the second largest source of holiday visitors to our country.”
Air arrivals grew from 5,675 in 2022 to 16,113 in 2023.
Those visiting the country for job-related purposes made up 34 per cent of the total arrivals, followed by those on business trips at 20 per cent.
Tourists on cruise ships contributed to 22 per cent of the total visitors, while holidaymakers accounted for 11 per cent. Those visiting friends and relatives, or to attend conferences and exhibitions made up 7 per cent of arrivals.
Uvovo said it showed the diversification of the country’s tourism market and its potential as a tourist destination.
“The growing interest from Chinese travellers signifies PNG’s growing appeal and the effectiveness of our promotional efforts in key global markets,” he said.
He added that the 2023 reports showed emerging trends and reaffirmed the resilience and potential of PNG’s tourism sector.
“We aim to promote PNG’s natural beauty and cultural richness to further strengthen our status as a premier tourist destination in the Asia-Pacific region.
“I am confident that PNG’s tourism sector will continue to thrive, offering memorable experiences to visitors while contributing significantly to our nation’s economic growth and development,” he said.