From July 12 to 14, the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) highlighted the country's exceptional birding opportunities at the Global Bird Fair (GBF) in Rutland, Oakham, United Kingdom.

This major event provided PNG a key platform to engage with international birding tour operators, travel agents, and conservation organizations, enhancing its reputation as a premier birding destination.

TPA's participation proved fruitful, generating over 50 qualified leads from interactions with tour operators, travel agents, conservation groups, media representatives, photographers, and bird watchers.

This exposure significantly boosted awareness of PNG’s birding attractions, facilitated potential future travel packages, and garnered substantial media interest.

A standout feature of the PNG booth was the inclusion of professional bird photographer Dustin Chen. His high-resolution images and expertise drew considerable attention, effectively driving interest towards PNG-based tour operators.

David Monai, TPA's Product Development Officer, noted: “Our booth was a highlight, featuring high-quality photographs of PNG’s diverse birdlife and destinations, complemented by informative brochures, maps, and promotional materials. We offered personalized information sessions to attendees, which added significant value to our outreach.”

Monai highlighted the strategic importance of the connections established at the GBF.

“The relationships formed have paved the way for potential partnerships and initiatives aimed at promoting responsible birding practices and community development in PNG,” he added.

The TPA plans to follow up with interested parties, provide further support to tour operators, and explore collaboration with conservation organizations.

TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, emphasized the significance of PNG’s participation in the GBF, particularly given the increasing demand from UK and European markets.

"Our success at the event underscores the growing interest in bird watching from these regions. We are preparing early for next year’s fair to build on this momentum. After a hiatus of 5-6 years due to Covid-19, the travel bookings and plans secured this year highlight the importance of ongoing participation,” Uvovo said.

He also pointed out the need for proper training and capacity building for PNG’s birding industry stakeholders, including standard compliance, bird identification, constructing hides near leks, and using solar-powered bird box cameras.

Commending his team, Uvovo concluded, “Our participation at this year’s Global Bird Fair was a tremendous success. It provided a strategic platform to showcase PNG’s exceptional birding potential and establish crucial connections within the global birding tourism industry. This will ultimately support the empowerment of local and rural communities in PNG.”

It is anticipated that following the endorsement of the National Agritourism Policy, the parties will work together to facilitate investment in the agritourism sector. This includes the development and marketing of existing agritourism products to create niche markets and attract tourists.

The Secretary for the Department of Agriculture and Livestock, Dr. Sergie Bang, has hailed the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) as a significant milestone for the agriculture sector. He emphasized that the collaboration aligns with the newly launched National Agriculture Sector Plan 2024-2033, which aims to transform subsistence farming into commercial farming and entrepreneurship. 

Dr. Bang noted that agritourism development will play a crucial role in achieving these objectives by providing additional revenue for farm owners and strengthening self-sustaining, resilient communities.

During the event, Dr. Bang highlighted the shared commitment to facilitating regional consultations and comprehensive stakeholder engagement in the policy formulation process. By collaborating with relevant agencies, the partnership aims to efficiently achieve the MOU’s objectives and drive the transformation of the agriculture sector to empower healthy and prosperous agricultural communities.

The MOU is set for an initial period of three years, setting the stage for a path to harness Papua New Guinea’s agricultural potential to boost tourism. Through this partnership, both TPA and DAL are committed to developing a vibrant agritourism sector that will contribute significantly to the country’s economic development.

Galomarubu village, along the Rigo coast nestled in the Rigo District of Central Province, lies an estimated 113 kilometers from bustling Port Moresby. Here, Esau Lui, the Owner and Director of Belt Again Beach Resort, brings to life his vision of a coastal haven where guests can escape urban hustle and reconnect with nature and culture.

Lui's roots run deep in the Central Province, specifically the Rigo district, and it's on the shores of his village that his dream takes shape. With a passion for hospitality and a desire to showcase his heritage, Lui embarked on the journey of building Belt Again Beach Resort in 2023.

The resort takes its name from the land it is built on, 'Kwari wai' in the native dialect, which means Belt Again. Now, a year and two months into construction, the resort stands as a beacon of local pride and opportunity.

Employing local villagers in various roles, from carpenters, electricians, plumbers, security guards, drivers to chefs, Lui not only fosters economic growth but also preserves traditional craftsmanship and culinary practices. 

Esau Lui in an interview with PNG Business News confirmed his employees where qualify in their respective professions delivering their services accordingly, “I told them, if we can build resources for other people, why not come together and we build for ourselves.” He added.

He stated the importance of exposing such locations as tourist destinations, to the international community and the country as a whole.

The resort's commitment to sourcing produce from nearby villages not only supports local economies but also enriches guests' dining experiences with authentic flavors.

As the resort nears completion, its offerings promise an escape like no other. From comfortable accommodations to beachfront bungalows, and from tantalizing dining options to a plethora of activities, Belt Again Beach Resort plans to cater for guests’ preferences. Whether guests seek relaxation or cultural immersion or simply a moment of tranquility, the resort aims to deliver.

Central to the resort's allure is its stunning jetty, stretching 210 meters from the rooms to the sea-view bar. By day, it offers a scenic pathway to the open sea, while by night, it transforms into a captivating spectacle, illuminated against the darkened waters.

Lui's aspirations extend beyond mere hospitality; he envisions Belt Again Beach Resort as a catalyst for community development and cultural exchange. By involving nearby villages in Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) sales and tourism initiatives, he hopes to foster sustainable growth and empower local communities, including villages stretching by the coastline of Central Province.

With a team of 37 skilled workers from diverse backgrounds, Lui's dedication to his vision is evident. These individuals are not just employees but partners in realizing a shared dream of prosperity and pride.

As the resort's opening draws near, Lui reflects on the journey that brought him here—a journey rooted in childhood memories and fueled by a determination to give back to his community.

Belt Again Beach Resort stands as a testament to Lui's unwavering commitment and the rich history of its location.

“This location is special to me, when I was a child, my parents will bring me here. We had our gardens nearby, our coconut tress too. Growing up, I had a vision; to do something in this place. Today what you see is the reality of what I dreamt of building years ago.”

“To bring back something, as an aspiring leader, this resort creates employment opportunities for locals and nearby villagers as well.”

“Imagine if we start having tourists, we can involve and have villages and communities to participate in SME sales here.”  He added.

Beyond its idyllic setting lies a legacy century in the making. Once a vital stop for seafaring travelers, Kwariwai Beach Point now emerges as a modern-day sanctuary, welcoming visitors and guests from near and far to experience its beauty and local hospitality.

As the finishing touches are put in place, Belt Again Beach Resort awaits its grand unveiling for the months to come. Esau’s efforts shine through the well-built tropical escape taking shape.

To strengthen sustainable tourism development across the Pacific region, the South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) joined with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) for a pivotal collaboration.

The highlight of this partnership was a weeklong in-country workshop held May 13 to 17, focusing on data initiatives and the Digital Measurement and Benchmarking Dashboard under the Pacific Digital Transformation Project (PDTP).

The project focuses on collecting and analyzing tourism data to make informed decisions for sustainable tourism development.

The New Zealand Government-funded Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI) project supported this partnership.

The PTDI project supports evidence-based planning and decision-making. Its components include the creation of a bi-annual International Visitor Survey (IVS), an annual Business Confidence Index (BCI), and an annual Community Attitude Survey (CAS) report. These reports offer crucial insights into community awareness and attitudes toward tourism.

The workshop, held at the Citi Boutique Hotel in Port Moresby, drew the participation of 15 individuals equipped with the tools necessary to drive insightful research outcomes within PNG's tourism sector.

At the workshop, PNGTPA's Executive Manager for the Corporate Affairs Division, Claire Kupo, underscored the pivotal role of data and research in shaping informed decisions and public policies conducive to sustainable tourism development in the region.

PNGTPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, reiterated the significance of the collaboration with SPTO on initiatives like the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI) project.

Mossman Uvovo said: "The recent week-long in-country workshop focused on data initiatives and the Digital Measurement and Benchmarking Dashboard shows the importance of collecting and analyzing tourism data for informed decision-making.”

“By working together with SPTO and other stakeholders, we are committed to using data-driven insights to drive sustainable tourism development in Papua New Guinea and across the Pacific region. Through initiatives like the PTDI project, we aim to enhance our understanding of visitor behavior, preferences, and trends, ultimately shaping a vibrant future for tourism in our country and the region," he added.

SPTO Chief Executive Officer, Christopher Cocker, also stressed the importance of weaving together the power of data to contribute to informed decision-making and shape a sustainable and vibrant future for tourism in the Pacific.

“SPTO has been very fortunate to conduct an in-country visit to PNG to enhance the proficiency of research officers in utilising statistical analysis software (Survey Monkey, SPSS & NVIVO) through funding from the New Zealand government,” Mr. Cocker said.

“The workshop is pivotal for driving insightful research outcomes within the PNG tourism sector and data collaboration is key within the Tourism Industry Stakeholders in the implementation of the Digital Measurement and Benchmarking Dashboard.”

A participant, PNGTPA Research and Statistics Officer Abigail Pangwinyen, lauded the four-day workshop for enhancing her skills in data analysis within the travel and tourism industry.

Through conducting workshops and fostering collaborations with local partners, SPTO reaffirms its dedication to advancing sustainable tourism development in both PNG and the broader Pacific region.

The PTDI project, funded by the New Zealand Government, encompasses ten countries -- PNG including Niue, Cook Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Tonga, Kiribati, Timor Leste, and FSM-Yap.

It aims to collect and analyze tourism data crucial for evidence-based planning and decision-making, thus shaping a vibrant future for tourism in the Pacific.

The SPTO is the mandated organisation representing Tourism in the region, established in 1983 as the Tourism Council of the South Pacific.  

It has 21 Government members -- American Samoa, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiribati, Nauru, Marshall Islands, New Caledonia, Niue, Papua New Guinea, Rapa Nui, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Timor Leste, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Wallis and Futuna, and the People’s Republic of China.

In addition to government members, the SPTO has a broad private-sector membership base.

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) recently highlighted PNG tourism at the South Pacific Tourism Exchange (SPTE) held from May 4 to 5 in Nadi, Fiji.

With a team of eight TPA representatives in attendance, the event aimed to support tourism connections and spotlight PNG's diverse attractions to a global audience.

Organised by the Pacific Tourism Organisation (PTO), formerly the South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), SPTE stands as a pivotal trade showcase for Pacific Island nations’ tourism offerings to international buyers from key markets.

SPTE markets, promotes, and develops tourism in the Pacific Region. It provides a significant opportunity for PNG’s local tour operators, hoteliers, airlines and travel logistics to engage directly with international buyers, building their networking and conducting business.

TPA's robust presence underscored PNG's commitment to the PTO and its tourism-related objectives.

Eric Mossman Uvovo, TPA’s Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the significance of active participation, citing SPTE as a premier avenue to spotlight PNG's natural beauty, cultural richness, and unique experiences to potential visitors.

Mr Uvovo said: "Active participation in the South Pacific Tourism Exchange, organized by PTO, serves as a premier platform to showcase our nation's tourism attractions to international buyers from key markets.”

“The face-to-face meetings facilitated at SPTE will allow us to effectively promote PNG as an iconic tourist destination, renowned for our pristine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique experiences. It's a chance for us to showcase the best of what our country has to offer.”

TPA’s involvement aligned with its overarching goal of cultivating partnerships within the tourism and hospitality sector. Uvovo reiterated the importance of PNG's presence at global tourism events in enhancing the country's reputation as a top-tier tourism destination.

"Through initiatives like SPTE, we continue to position ourselves as a leading destination for travellers seeking authentic experiences in the South Pacific.”

“Events like SPTE solidify our position as a premier destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences in the South Pacific,” he added.

With a focus on building lasting relationships and exploring avenues for future growth, TPA's active involvement in SPTE signals a concerted effort to elevate PNG's tourism industry on the global stage.

Papua New Guinea Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Isi Henry Leonard recently welcomed distinguished guests from China, PNG, and stakeholders for the first China Ready Workshop held on the 25th April at APEC House-Port Moresby.

“Your presence here signifies our vision for a vibrant future in tourism and business between Port Moresby-PNG and China,” Minister Leonard said in his opening remarks.

China Ready is a global accreditation system that certifies a product or service that can be trusted by a Chinese consumer. This internationally recognized system is being rolled out in PNG’s capital among affiliated members of the tourism industry.

PNG is the 51st country across six continents to adopt this program, representing 25 percent of global destinations.

The workshop is organized by the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) and the National Capital District (NCD) Governor’s Office in close partnership with the Government of China.

It is an exclusive event, initiated to prepare Port Moresby’s tourism industry and its stakeholders for the opportunities the Chinese market offers.

The workshop included the latest market updates, insights into the post-COVID-19 Chinese traveler, effective strategies to take on the fast-evolving Chinese market, and tap into its vast potential. Areas ranging from transportation and accommodation to entertainment and services highlight the diverse opportunities awaiting the city, as the government and stakeholders prepare to welcome Chinese tourists.

Participants gained valuable knowledge on post-COVID Chinese tourist demographers, behavioral changes, the rising trend of Free Independent Travellers, effective communication strategies with Chinese partners, destination selection criteria, target strategies for Chinese travellers, and marketing PNG’s unique culture and natural beauty.

Participants in the workshop included:

• Government officials from tourism departments and ministries
• Cultural organizations and heritage sites representatives
• Local tourist boards and associations
• Hotels and accommodation representatives
• Tour operators and travel agencies
• Transportation providers (airlines, railways, bus companies)
• Restaurant and food services businesses
• Attractions and touristic sites management
• Retailers and souvenir shops
• Tourist guides
• Emergency services and healthcare providers
• Agencies for safety and security briefing
• Marketing and public relations professionals for destination promotion
• Hospitality training institutes and professionals for service improvement.

In his speech, Hon. Leonard said: “We will work closely with our stakeholders to enhance Port Moresby’s image, correct misconceptions, and strengthen our ties with Guangdong Province.”

“It is time that PNG joins other Pacific nations that have benefited through this China Ready approach. it is evident in their success stories of countries like Samoa, which has experienced significant increase in Chinese visitation numbers and tourism growth after adopting the China Ready principles. Let us seize this opportunity to build strong partnerships, enhance our city’s appeal, and pave the way for sustainable growth and mutual prosperity.”

More than 60 participants got certified, including air service providers, car rental companies, clothing retail outlets, and received their certificates after completing the China Ready workshop.

NCD Governor Hon. Powes Parkop reiterated the significance of making Port Moresby and PNG China Ready “to tap into and harness this potential of tourism.”

“The National Government through the Minister adopted the strategic plan and now it’s up to all of us to roll the strategy out. We must recognize and understand that, Tourism is a sleeping giant,” he said.

Hon. Powes emphasized the products of tourism that PNG can offer. Port Moresby, as the nation’s capital, is a hub of more than a thousand tribes and cultures, a diverse country that is rich with language. PNG owns one-third of the world’s rainforest, which is a tourist product in itself, he added.

The China Ready Workshop follows the recent establishment of direct flights from Guangzhou, China to Port Moresby by China Southern Airlines, fueling the expected increase in tourism in the coming months. 

PNGTPA’s CEO Mr. Eric Mossman Uvovo described the initiative as a historical milestone for the country, “where we position ourselves to welcome one of the biggest economies in the world in terms of tourism. The workshop was a pivotal moment for stakeholders and all of us to be ready for the outbound Chinese Market.”

The China Ready Program was established in 2002 and is the largest of its kind, ensuring destinations and service providers meet Chinese hospitality standards. It is operated by CBISN and exclusively issued by the China Outbound Tourism Research Academy (COTA). The program is endorsed by the Chinese Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Dr. Marcus Lee, CEO of China Travel Online and facilitator for the China Ready workshop, provided insights into the program's objectives.

"Our primary objective is to enable Papua New Guinea to tap into the vast potential of the Chinese market. We've completed our audit, and the essence of the China Ready concept is to guide destinations and stakeholders on welcoming Chinese tourists. More importantly, it's about delivering services and products that meet Chinese standards," said Lee.

Lee encouraged the government to work closely with PNGTPA to make PNG China Ready. “I urge all stakeholders, including the government and PNGTPA, to implement the Insights gained to make Port Moresby and PNG truly China Ready,” he said.

Lee is CEO of China Travel Online, a leading China Outbound Travel portal on the China-wide web with over 100 destinations listed. The group consists of Technology, Media, and MICE, with officers across 10 countries in Asia and China. The portal reach 80% of the Chinese outbound travel trade.

He sits on board as Chairman of China SME Business Owners Association (ICIF) with 11,000 corporate members. Marcus speak 6 Chinese languages and is the author of the international bestseller “How to Outsmart China” featured by CNN, China Daily and Bloomberg.

Port Moresby, the dynamic capital of Papua New Guinea, is set for a remarkable transformation into a premier destination for Chinese tourists, following a milestone collaboration between local and national tourism industries, business sectors, and a strategic partnership with Guangdong Province.

Together, they envision “Amazing Port Moresby” as a pivotal hub for tourism and business, fostering sustainable growth and global connectivity, National Capital District (NCD) Governor, Honorable Powes Parkop, said during a recent pre-cocktail reception at the APEC House in Port Moresby.

This event, hosted by Governor Parkop and the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) on April 17, served to guide stakeholders toward a brighter future for tourism in the city. It also set the stage for the upcoming "China Ready Workshop," scheduled for April 25, at the APEC House from 8 am to 5 pm.

The pre-cocktail reception provided industry stakeholders a chance to engage in discussions vital to the future of tourism in Port Moresby. It aimed to facilitate networking and dialogue among stakeholders from various sectors of the tourism industry and business sector.

Attendees had the chance to connect with key players and exchange insights on strategies to prepare Port Moresby for the rapidly growing Chinese tourism market.

In his speech, Governor Parkop said: “Today’s pre-cocktail reception underscores our commitment to ensuring that Port Moresby is ready to welcome Chinese travelers with open arms.”

“The China Ready Workshop represents a crucial step in our journey to prepare Port Moresby for the burgeoning Chinese tourism market. This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering economic prosperity and forging enduring partnerships for the benefit of our city and our people,” he added.

Governor Parkop emphasized that the event, attended by various stakeholders, demonstrates a commitment to fostering relationships with the Chinese tourism market.

“The China Ready Workshop represents a pivotal milestone in our endeavor to ready Port Moresby for the burgeoning China tourism market. This initiative underscores our commitment to nurturing economic prosperity and forging enduring partnerships for the benefit of our people,” he said.

Governor Parkop highlighted that NCDC and PNGTPA have been actively driving the China Ready project, recognizing its significant potential.

He affirmed NCDC's commitment to becoming China Ready by supporting its tourism office and allocating funds from this year's budget to support its tourism initiatives.

The NCD Governor emphasized that PNG boasts numerous tourist attractions, including diverse tribes, music, and traditions, making it a compelling destination compared to other Pacific Island nations and other countries.

“We are very grateful for this partnership. And the National Government I believe, is supporting seriously.  PNG, we are a great tourist destination. PNG is a great idea for a tourist destination -- from the mountains to the coast, to the islands, to the rivers. And for us here in Port Moresby, thousands of tribes and villages in one destination, and this is what Port Moresby can offer.”

“We have the potential to attract tourists from all corners, but it hinges on everyone in Port Moresby and the country. Preparedness is key; if we demonstrate readiness and preparation, tourists will come,” Governor Parkop remarked.

Mr. Eric Mossman Uvovo, Chief Executive Officer of the PNGTPA, echoed Governor Parkop's sentiments, stressing the workshop's importance and calling upon stakeholders to unite in their quest to create an extraordinary future for tourism in Port Moresby.

Mr Uvovo stated: “The workshop marks a crucial juncture in our efforts to tap into the vast potential of the Chinese tourism market. Through informative sessions and interactive discussions, stakeholders will gain valuable insights into preparing and promoting Port Moresby as a top destination.”

“Let us join forces to pave the way for an extraordinary future for tourism in Port Moresby,” he added.

The China Ready Workshop

The China Ready Workshop is an initiative spearheaded by the NCD Governor and PNG TPA since July 2023 and aims to position Port Moresby as a premier destination for Chinese tourists.

Through a comprehensive approach encompassing cultural enrichment, infrastructure enhancement, and targeted promotional campaigns, efforts are being made to elevate Port Moresby as the Chinese travelers’ choice.

The workshop will delve into key topics such as market updates, post-COVID-19 traveler insights, and effective strategies for attracting Chinese tourists and businesses to Port Moresby.

Certified participants will not only gain a Certificate of Completion but also an identification number for 12 months of continuing education. These preparations are instrumental in realizing the vision of making Amazing Port Moresby a premier tourist destination, particularly for Chinese visitors.

In a significant development for tourism along the historical Kokoda Track, Tourism Promotion Authority’s (TPA) Chief Executive Officer, Eric Mossman Uvovo, was sworn in as the Deputy Chairman of the Kokoda Track Special Purposes Authority’s (KTA) Management Committee during a ceremony held at Stanley’s Hotel on Tuesday, March 19, Port Moresby. 

The swearing-in ceremony witnessed the appointment of a total of 10 committee members, representing government agencies, Local Level government representatives, and Landowner leaders. Among the notable appointments, Jack Deia, the Landowner Representative of the Koiari people, was elected as the Chairman of the KTA committee following a vote by committee members.

The event was attended by dignitaries including the Minister for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Hon. Isi Henry Leonard, and the Governor of Central Province, Rufina Peter, along with representatives from government bodies, Kokoda Landowners, KTA members, and the Conservation and Protection Authority (CEPA).
Addressing the gathering, Honourable Minister, Isi Henry Leonard, emphasized the crucial role of the KTA in promoting tourism. 

“The Kokoda track is one of this country’s largest tourism attractions, not just because of its historical significance, but also its natural beauty that attracts many to this iconic site,” said Leonard. 

Governor Rufina Peter echoed Minister Leonard’s sentiments, congratulating the newly sworn-in committee members and stressing the importance of prioritizing the interests of the landowners. 

“I’d like to encourage you all to listen to the landowners and the people – Landowners must be happy,” Governor Peter remarked. 

She further emphasized the economic potential of tourism, highlighting its role in providing a sustainable alternative to mining and ensuring the preservation of the Kokoda Track’s cultural and environmental heritage.

Tourism Promotion Authority’s (TPA) Chief Executive Officer, Eric Mossman Uvovo, highlighted the significance of Kokoda Track tourism emphasizing the need to showcase this iconic site to the global audience. 

“Kokoda is one of our most important tourism products, and we should be driving this product to the world.

When you talk about conserving the environment and the lush ecosystem at Kokoda, when you talk about sustainability for the landowners and for their many generations to come, then we have to really start talking about tourism for Kokoda,” said Uvovo. 

Uvovo’s appointment as Deputy Chairman of the KTA Management Committee signifies a collaborative effort towards enhancing tourism management and sustainable development along the Kokoda Track. With the collective expertise and dedication of committee members, the KTA is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing tourism initiatives and preserving the cultural and natural heritage of this iconic site for future generations.

Hosting the World Indigenous Business Forum (WIBF) in Port Moresby from October 24-26, 2023, is a wonderful opportunity to promote Papua New Guinea as a tourism destination, says the Minister for International Trade and Investment, Hon. Richard Maru. Minister Maru said this recently during the announcement by the Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) to support the WIBF with the gold sponsorship of K250, 000.

“It is a clear objective of our Government to not only host the World Indigenous Business Forum but importantly use it as an opportunity to market our country as a tourism destination and as an investment destination, apart from our indigenous businesses mingling with their counterparts from all over the world to build partnerships and learn from the success of many very successful indigenous businesses worldwide,” said Minister Maru.

“There is so much negative news on the media about our country. This is really an opportunity for TPA to step up and market our country as a tourism destination and also as a destination for potential investors in the tourism sector to invest in things like casinos, hotels, and ferries, etc. This is really a wonderful opportunity; this is in fact the biggest opportunity after APEC 2018 to really promote Papua New Guinea and put PNG on the world stage,” said Minister Maru.

Minister Maru said TPA’s support was an investment that would pay dividends for many years to come.

“This is an opportunity to promote tourism in a big way, so we are really excited about your sponsorship. With this sponsorship, TPA will be given the opportunity to be one of the three PNG guest speakers at the World Indigenous Business Forum where TPA can really market PNG’s tourism sector in a big way. It also gives them a chance to have a booth where TPA can use to promote our country,” said Minister Maru.

Minister Maru said over 400 international guests were expected to attend the forum both as delegates and as speakers, and international media were also expected to come.

“We also understand that many of the foreign delegates who will be coming are CEOs of their own companies and one thing we want to do is to attract them to stay for another week or two or go back and bring their families for a holiday in Papua New Guinea,” said Minister Maru.

Minister Maru also announced that there was a grand opening ceremony being planned.

“I am excited to announce that we are planning a grand welcome ceremony with NCDC and the Amazing Port Moresby team where all our own delegates and the foreign delegates and their families will be welcomed at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium with a big cultural show where the 22 provinces will welcome them. This will be followed by the 2-day event and on the evenings of these two days including the closing ceremony we will still be promoting PNG culture and PNG as a tourism destination,” said Minister Maru.

Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Isi Henry Leonard thanked Minister Maru and the WIBF Secretariat for the opportunity to participate in the WIBF.

“When we talk about tourism in Papua New Guinea, our product is the country. You are bringing the world to the country, and it is a great honor for TPA to participate in the World Indigenous Business Forum as this is an opportunity that we will showcase the opportunity that we have not only as a destination but also as a place where you can invest in tourism industry; the potential is right here. PNG is one of the last frontiers of the world that needs to be discovered, so we need this platform where we can participate to make that awareness,” said Hon. Leonard.