The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), in partnership with the National Capital District Commission (NCDC), has officially launched the National Capital District Accommodation Inventory & Capacity Survey, marking the beginning of a collaborative initiative to strengthen tourism planning through the collection of accurate and comprehensive accommodation data.
The survey was officially launched during a stakeholder workshop held at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Port Moresby, bringing together accommodation providers, tourism stakeholders, and government representatives to introduce the survey's objectives, methodology, and implementation.
The Accommodation Inventory & Capacity Survey will establish a comprehensive and up-to-date database of accommodation establishments across the National Capital District. The information collected will provide reliable data to support tourism development, destination planning, investment attraction, and evidence-based policymaking and decision-making.
The survey will also strengthen Port Moresby's readiness to host major national and international events by providing accurate information on accommodation capacity and availability, including future planning for the PNG Chiefs Rugby League Games 2028.
PNGTPA Executive Manager for Partnership & Product Development, Mr Kennewton Kennedy, said the initiative represents an important milestone in building a stronger, more resilient, and sustainable tourism industry.
"Quality tourism planning begins with quality data. This Accommodation Inventory and Capacity Survey will provide us with an accurate picture of the accommodation sector within the National Capital District, enabling government and industry to make informed decisions that support sustainable tourism growth," Mr Kennedy said.
He said the survey would deliver long-term benefits for both government and the private sector.
"This initiative is about more than counting rooms. It is about understanding our tourism capacity, identifying opportunities for investment, improving destination planning, and ensuring Port Moresby is well prepared to host major national and international events."
Mr Kennedy also encouraged accommodation operators across the National Capital District to participate actively in the survey.
"The success of this exercise depends on the participation of accommodation providers. We encourage operators to provide accurate information, with the assurance that all data collected will be treated confidentially and used solely for planning and development purposes."
Speaking at the workshop, NCDC Economic and Business Development Manager Mr Busa Jeremiah Wenogo highlighted the broader significance of the initiative for Papua New Guinea's tourism industry.
"Port Moresby is not only the nation's administrative and business capital but also a destination that encourages visitors to stay longer, experience our culture and hospitality, and use the city as the gateway to explore the rest of Papua New Guinea. When we strengthen tourism in the National Capital District, we also strengthen tourism opportunities for every province."
The survey will develop an accurate inventory of accommodation establishments, assess accommodation capacity, support tourism investment and destination planning, identify accommodation availability for major events—including the PNG Chiefs Rugby League Games 2028—and strengthen tourism planning, emergency preparedness, and visitor information services.
The Accommodation Inventory & Capacity Survey reflects the shared commitment of PNGTPA and NCDC to improving tourism intelligence, enhancing visitor experiences, and supporting the sustainable growth of Papua New Guinea's tourism industry through strong partnerships and informed planning.
