24th WTTC Global Summit in progress at Perth in Australia
A new report by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) reveals that Oceania’s travel and tourism sector could inject an additional USD 112 billion to the region’s economy by 2034, bringing the total contribution to a record-breaking USD 336 billion.
In a press statement, WTTC says that according to the report, which was developed in collaboration with VFS Global and launched today at WTTC’s 24th Global Summit in Perth in Western Australia, this boost could also support an extra 1.1 million jobs, raising the total employment in the region supported by travel and tourism to 3.5 million by 2034.
The statement adds that the report, Unlocking Opportunities for Travel & Tourism Growth in Oceania, outlines the transformative potential of the region’s sector if strategic investments are made.
According to the global tourism body, Oceania, which comprises Australasia, Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia, could become a global leader in sustainable travel, while significantly boosting its economy.
However, the report highlights that unlocking this economic and social boost requires targeted action in a number of key areas. These include investing in sustainable infrastructure to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change and enhancing connectivity across the region as well as enhancing air connectivity. The other measures recommended by the report include streamlining visa processes and promoting eco-friendly tourism practices that protect indigenous communities.
The statement adds that for this growth to be realised, the report also advocates for a comprehensive policy package to include expanding airports across the region and developing renewable energy sources for tourism infrastructure.
Streamlining visa facilitation is also critical to unlocking this potential growth and would allow for a more seamless travel experience between Pacific islands.
According to the statement, VFS Global, a world leader in innovative visa solutions, is well-positioned to support these efforts by enabling more efficient visa processes, which could drive increased multi-country travel across the region.
Julia Simpson
“Oceania has an unparalleled opportunity to grow its travel and tourism sector in a way that not only drives economic growth but sets the standard for sustainability. By investing in climate-resilient infrastructure and supporting Indigenous communities, the region could become a global leader in eco-conscious, inclusive tourism,” says Julia Simpson, President & CEO, WTTC.
“We are delighted and honoured to collaborate with WTTC on this comprehensive report that highlights the immense potential of the travel and tourism industry in Oceania. As the world’s leading outsourcing and technology service specialist, VFS Global works with 69 governments worldwide with a presence in over 150 countries. Since establishing our presence in the Oceania region in 2008, we are now the trusted partner of 26 governments, serving 15 cities across 8 countries in the region,” says Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global Group.
Zubin Karkaria
“VFS Global is committed to playing a pivotal role in harnessing the region’s potential, along with upskilling the workforce, a crucial component in the tourism sector. Together, we aim to unlock new opportunities and support long-term resilience and success of the sector,” Karkaria adds.
Sustainability key to long-term success
The report highlights the need for eco-friendly infrastructure, including renewable energy solutions for resorts and climate-adaptive projects, which will not only reduce the sector’s environmental footprint, but also attract the growing market of environmentally conscious travellers. Indigenous-led tourism is also critical in this transition, providing authentic cultural experiences while ensuring local communities benefit directly from tourism revenue.
According to WTTC, by the end of this year, travel and tourism in Oceania is forecast to grow by 16.5 pc above pre-pandemic levels to reach USD 224 billion, and employment supported by the sector is expected to exceed pre-pandemic figures by 4.8 pc, employing 2.3 million people. However, international visitor spending is projected to remain 4 pc below 2019 levels, with a full recovery not expected until 2025.
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