Development of Tourism Industry in Papua New Guinea Facing Covid-19 Pandemic

This study investigates the development of Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) tourism industry and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although PNG offers rich cultural heritage, biodiversity, and attractions such as festivals, diving, and hiking, the sector faces persistent challenges including poor marketing, high costs, weak infrastructure, and systemic corruption. The pandemic further reduced tourist arrivals, disrupted ICT systems, and exposed mismanagement of resources, intensifying these barriers. The research identifies three key constraints to growth: corruption, technological limitations, and ineffective marketing strategies. To address these, it recommends an integrated marketing approach that engages government, private stakeholders, and development partners to promote innovative, technology-driven solutions. Using qualitative and secondary data, supported by SWOT and PESTEL analyses, the study provides a roadmap for policymakers and investors to strengthen PNG’s tourism sector. It concludes that coordinated efforts are essential for positioning PNG as a competitive destination in the Pacific region