SPTO strengthens regional tourism efforts over the past year

The South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) has expanded its work over the past year in tourism data, sustainability, climate resilience, market development, research and gender-inclusive tourism.

Speaking at the welcome reception for the Council of Tourism Ministers Meeting in Honiara, Chairlady for SPTO Board of Directors, Mrs. Adela Issachar Aru described the progress as an important step towards strengthening regional tourism.

She said these initiatives would provide a stronger foundation for informed decision-making and regional cooperation, but stressed that the next phase requires greater ambition and commitment from SPTO member countries.

“Think seriously about hospitality, travel, culture, about who you are as a people of the Pacific.

“We must invest in research and innovation, strengthen our tourism businesses and their resilience, improve access to finance and markets, and ensure that tourism benefits reach communities across our region.

“Our strength lies in our ability to bring Pacific countries together. And this is why we are together once more in Solomon Islands,” Mrs. Aru said.

She urged member countries represented in Honiara to share their priorities, identify common goals and pool limited resources to achieve greater results.

She noted that a collective regional approach would be increasingly important as Pacific tourism navigates global uncertainty and mounting climate pressures.

Mrs. Aru said the Council of Tourism Ministers Meeting provides an important opportunity for Pacific countries to share experiences, address common challenges and identify practical solutions.

“Let us use these meetings to make decisions that deliver lasting value for our people and to position Pacific tourism for sustainable growth,” she said.

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