Oceania Including Australasia, Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia, Could Become a Global Leader in Sustainable Travel, while Boosting Tourism Economy

In a landmark report launched today at the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 24th Global Summit in Perth (Boorloo), Western Australia, Oceania’s travel and tourism sector is projected to contribute a record-breaking US$336 billion to the region’s economy by 2034. This represents a potential US$112 billion (AU$166.4 billion) increase from current figures, as outlined in the report, ‘Unlocking Opportunities for Travel & Tourism Growth in Oceania’, developed in collaboration with VFS Global.

The report also highlights the region̢۪s potential to support 1.1 million new jobs in travel and tourism, raising the total employment figure to 3.5 million by 2034. This transformative potential is largely dependent on strategic investments in sustainable infrastructure, enhanced air connectivity, and eco-friendly tourism practices that protect Indigenous communities while fostering economic growth.

Oceania, which spans Australasia, Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia, is known for its diverse range of islands, including Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, as well as smaller island nations like Tonga, Samoa, and Palau. According to the WTTC report, the region is uniquely positioned to become a global leader in sustainable travel, given the growing global demand for eco-friendly tourism and the urgent need to address climate change.

To unlock Oceania̢۪s potential for tourism growth, the report outlines several key areas for targeted action:

As the leading provider of innovative visa solutions, VFS Global has committed to supporting Oceania̢۪s tourism growth by streamlining the visa application process and promoting multi-country travel within the region. Since 2008, the company has been a trusted partner of 26 governments across eight countries in Oceania, serving 15 cities.

As global discussions around sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) gain momentum, WTTC has identified the scaling of SAF production as critical to reducing emissions from air travel. The report emphasizes the importance of providing Pacific island nations with access to affordable sustainable fuels to ensure the long-term viability of air travel in the region.

In addition to sustainable aviation, the report highlights the role of Indigenous-led tourism in creating a more inclusive and eco-conscious sector. This model provides an opportunity for travelers to experience the rich cultural heritage of Oceania̢۪s Indigenous communities while ensuring that tourism revenue stays within these communities.

As the travel and tourism sector continues its recovery post-pandemic, the WTTC report offers an optimistic outlook for Oceania̢۪s tourism industry. By the end of 2024, the sector is expected to grow by 16.5% above pre-pandemic levels, reaching US$224 billion. Employment in the sector is forecast to exceed 2.3 million, marking a 4.8% increase from pre-pandemic figures.

However, the report cautions that international visitor spending is projected to remain 4% below 2019 levels, with full recovery not expected until 2025. This slower return of international visitors underscores the need for improved air connectivity and visa facilitation across the region.

To ensure that Oceania̢۪s travel and tourism sector reaches its full potential, the WTTC report advocates for a comprehensive policy package that includes:

As the world̢۪s demand for sustainable tourism grows, Oceania has a unique opportunity to position itself as a global leader in eco-conscious travel. By making strategic investments today, the region can attract the next generation of travelers who prioritize environmental responsibility and cultural preservation.

With the right investment and policy frameworks, Oceania̢۪s travel and tourism sector is poised for significant growth, potentially reaching US$336 billion by 2034. The WTTC report highlights that this growth can be achieved while setting a global standard for sustainability, Indigenous inclusion, and climate resilience.