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

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.

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.

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.