As the curtain falls on 2024, we reflect on a year that has truly showcased the strength, resilience, and unity of the Pacific tourism sector. It has been a year of milestones—each one a testament to our collective commitment to the future of tourism in our Blue Pacific.
This year, SPTO brought the Pacific’s voice to the world stage, championing our region’s unique stories, challenges, and opportunities. At COP29 in Azerbaijan, tourism was featured for the first time at this global forum, spotlighting the Pacific’s commitment to climate action and the preservation of our heritage and communities.
From the shores of Samoa at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Ministers (CHOGM2024) to the halls of the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum in Tonga, we reinforced the bonds that unite our region. In Antigua and Barbuda at the SIDS Global Business Network Forum, we highlighted the resilience of small islands, while Hawaii’s vibrant FESTPAC celebrated the cultural heartbeat of Oceania.
Across the globe, SPTO was represented at the Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami, the World Tourism Cities Federation Summit in Wellington, and the China International Travel Mart in Shanghai. Each platform amplified the beauty, innovation, and promise of Pacific tourism.
Closer to home, we hosted the South Pacific Tourism Exchange in Fiji, achieved milestones in capacity building in Sustainable Tourism , also with the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative and Digital Measurement Workshops touching nearly every corner of our region—from Tonga to Timor Leste, Vanuatu to Yap. Through the Aviation and Tourism Board Governance Training in Canberra, we strengthened the foundations for future growth and connectivity.
The highlight of our year was the launch of the 2025-2029 Strategic Plan, a bold vision rooted in sustainability, resilience, digital transformation, connectivity and regional cooperation. This roadmap is our compass for navigating the future, ensuring Pacific tourism thrives amidst a changing world.
As we welcome 2025, let us carry forward the energy and optimism of 2024. Together, we will turn our vision into reality, creating a tourism sector that uplifts communities, preserves our environment, and showcases the unmatched spirit of the Blue Pacific.
To our members, partners, and stakeholders—your passion, support and dedication have been the driving force behind every success this year. Thank you for walking this journey with us.
May this festive season bring you joy, peace, and magic moments with your loved ones. Let’s step into 2025 ready to shine brighter than ever.
