Regional Travel & Tourism to unlock its economic and social potential if key actions are taken
A new report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) reveals that Oceania’sTravel & Tourism sector could inject an additional US$112BN to the region’s economy by 2034,bringing the total contribution to a record-breaking US$ 336BN.
According to the report, in collaboration with VFS Global and launched today at WTTC’s 24th GlobalSummit in Perth (Boorloo), Western Australia, this boost could also support an extra 1.1 million jobs,raising the total employment in the region supported by Travel & Tourism to 3.5 million by 2034.
The report, “Unlocking Opportunities for Travel & Tourism Growth in Oceania”, outlines thetransformative potential of the region’s sector if strategic investments are made.
According to the global tourism body, Oceania, a region which includes Australasia, Melanesia,Micronesia, and Polynesia, could become a global leader in sustainable travel, while significantlyboosting its economy.
However, 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 changeand enhancing connectivity across the region
• Enhancing air connectivity
• Streamlining visa processes
• Promoting eco-friendly tourism practices that protect Indigenous communities
For this growth to be realised, the report also advocates for a comprehensive policy package toinclude 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 amore seamless travel experience between Pacific islands.
VFS Global, a world leader in innovative visa solutions, is well-positioned to support these efforts byenabling more efficient visa processes, which could drive increased multi-country travel across the region.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Oceania has an unparalleled opportunity to grow itsTravel & Tourism sector in a way that not only drives economic growth but sets the standard forsustainability.
“By investing in climate-resilient infrastructure and supporting Indigenous communities, the regioncould become a global leader in eco-conscious, inclusive tourism.”
Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global Group, said: “We are delighted andhonoured to collaborate with WTTC on this comprehensive report that highlights the immensepotential of the travel and tourism industry in Oceania.“
As the world’s leading outsourcing and technology service specialist, VFS Global works with 69governments worldwide with a presence in over 150 countries. Since establishing our presence inthe Oceania region in 2008, we are now the trusted partner of 26 governments, serving 15 citiesacross 8 countries in the region.
“VFS Global is committed to playing a pivotal role in harnessing the region’s potential, along withupskilling the workforce, a crucial component in the tourism sector. Together, we aim to unlock newopportunities and support long-term resilience and success of the sector.”
Sustainability is central to the region’s long-term success.
The report highlights the need for eco-friendly infrastructure, including renewable energy solutionsfor resorts and climate-adaptive projects, which will not only reduce the sector’s environmentalfootprint, but also attract the growing market of environmentally conscious travellers.
Indigenous-led tourism is also critical in this transition, providing authentic cultural experiences whileensuring local communities benefit directly from tourism revenue.
A Look at 2024
By the end of this year, Travel & Tourism in Oceania is forecast to grow by 16.5% above pre-pandemiclevels to reach US$224 billion, and employment supported by the sector is expected to exceed pre-pandemic figures by 4.8%, employing 2.3 million people.
However, international visitor spending is projected to remain 4% below 2019 levels, with a fullrecovery not expected until 2025.
