The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), in partnership with the National Capital District Commission (NCDC), has launched the National Capital District Accommodation Inventory & Capacity Survey, an initiative aimed at strengthening tourism investment, destination planning and industry growth through the collection of reliable accommodation data.
The survey was officially launched during a stakeholder workshop at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Port Moresby on 30 June, bringing together accommodation providers, tourism stakeholders and government representatives to outline the survey's objectives, methodology and implementation.
The survey will establish a comprehensive and up-to-date database of accommodation establishments across the National Capital District, providing reliable information to support tourism development, attract investment and enable evidence-based policy and planning.
The initiative is also expected to improve 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 2028 PNG Chiefs Rugby Games.
PNGTPA Executive Manager for Partnership and Product Development, Kennewton Kennedy, said the survey represents an important step towards building a stronger and more 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," Kennedy said.
He said the initiative would generate long-term value for both government and the private sector by identifying opportunities for investment and improving destination planning.
"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," he said.
Kennedy also encouraged accommodation operators throughout the National Capital District to actively participate in the survey, assuring them that all information collected would remain confidential and be used solely for planning and development purposes.
NCDC Economic and Business Development Manager, Busa Jeremiah Wenogo, said strengthening tourism in Port Moresby would have wider economic benefits for the country.
"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 a 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," Wenogo said.
According to PNGTPA, 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 2028 PNG Chiefs Rugby Games, and strengthen tourism planning, emergency preparedness and visitor information services.
The initiative reflects the shared commitment of PNGTPA and NCDC to improving tourism intelligence, enhancing visitor experiences and creating a stronger investment environment for Papua New Guinea's tourism industry through informed planning and strategic partnerships.
