Region:
World
Category:
Tourism

WTTC Leaders Unveil Report Forecasting $112 Billion Boost for Oceania's Travel & Tourism Sector by 2034

  • Virginia Messina, Senior Vice President of WTTC, and Nejc Jus, WTTC's Director of Research
    Virginia Messina, Senior Vice President of WTTC, and Nejc Jus, WTTC's Director of Research
Region:
World
Category:
Tourism
Author/s:
By Karina Giorgenello @losviajesdekarina
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Perth, Australia – During a press conference at the World Travel & Tourism Council's (WTTC) 24th Global Summit, Virginia Messina, Senior Vice President of WTTC, and Nejc Jus, WTTC's Director of Research, presented a groundbreaking report that reveals Oceania's Travel & Tourism sector could contribute an impressive additional US$112 billion to the region's economy by 2034. This growth is projected to elevate the sector's total contribution to an unprecedented US$336 billion.

Titled "Unlocking Opportunities for Travel & Tourism Growth in Oceania," the report underscores the urgent need for investments in sustainable tourism infrastructure. Messina highlighted that at least US$29 billion will be required over the next decade to spur economic growth and create over 300,000 jobs in the region. "These investments must be directed toward sustainable infrastructure to truly maximize their impact," she asserted.

The report outlines the transformative potential of Oceania's Travel & Tourism sector, encompassing Australasia, Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia. It indicates that strategic initiatives could unlock substantial economic and social benefits, supporting an additional 1.1 million jobs and raising total employment in the sector to 3.5 million by 2034.

Key areas identified for targeted action include:

  • Investing in Sustainable Infrastructure: Developing climate-resilient structures to mitigate the impacts of climate change and enhance regional connectivity.
  • Enhancing Air Connectivity: Streamlining transportation links to facilitate smoother travel experiences across the Pacific islands.
  • Streamlining Visa Processes: Simplifying visa regulations to promote multi-country travel and increase tourist flow within the region.
  • Promoting Eco-Friendly Tourism Practices: Supporting Indigenous communities while encouraging sustainable tourism initiatives.

WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson remarked, "Oceania has a unique opportunity to grow its Travel & Tourism sector in a manner that not only fosters economic growth but also sets a global benchmark for sustainability." She stressed the importance of investing in climate-resilient infrastructure to support Indigenous communities, positioning Oceania as a leader in eco-conscious tourism.

Zubin Karkaria, CEO of VFS Global, praised the collaboration between WTTC and his organization to unlock the region's potential. "VFS Global is dedicated to playing a crucial role in harnessing Oceania's capabilities, alongside upskilling the workforce, which is vital for the tourism sector," he noted.

Looking ahead, the report forecasts that by the end of this year, the Travel & Tourism sector in Oceania will grow by 16.5% above pre-pandemic levels, reaching US$224 billion. Employment in the sector is anticipated to exceed pre-pandemic figures, supporting 2.3 million jobs. However, international visitor spending is expected to remain 4% below 2019 levels, with a complete recovery projected only by 2025.

The report emphasizes that sustainability must remain at the core of Oceania's long-term success, advocating for eco-friendly infrastructure and Indigenous-led tourism to ensure local communities benefit from the growing sector. The message is clear: for Oceania to realize its full potential, immediate and strategic investments in sustainable tourism infrastructure are essential.