PNG looks to ease regulations to grow tourism
Papua New Guinea is planning to roll out special tourism programs to draw Chinese travelers.
So far, Chinese travelers have been able to get a special visa on arrival, while direct flights and tax-free experiences will be made available in the future, says Jerry Agus, head of the country’s tourism promotion authority.
The goal is to welcome more Chinese travelers to discover the country’s tropical features, Agus says.
The largest island country in South Pacific, Papua New Guinea boasts some stunning natural landscapes featuring volcanos, waterfalls and rivers, as well as exotic cultural experiences provided by around 800 tribes.
A series of cultural exchange activities were recently held in Port Moresby between China and Papua New Guinea ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders’ meeting.
One was the production of a documentary Glamorous PNG, produced by China Central Television, that was aired on Friday and Saturday. The documentary gives glimpses of not only the natural scenery, history and culture of the country, but also of modern life in Papua New Guinea.
Agus says the show, alongside the APEC summit would give local tourism a shot in the arm.
At the moment, the country remains an off-the-beaten-track destination for Chinese travelers, due to its visa application process and a lack of understanding of the country’s tourism resources.
Agus says Chinese travelers’ visas would be dealt with in one week or less, and visa on arrival would be granted for Chinese group travelers who book their trips via PNG-accredited travel agencies.
“It will be great news for Chinese travelers,” Agus tells China Radio International.
Once Chinese travelers file a visa application, immigration and exit-entry agencies will begin processing it immediately, he explains. Tourism promotions will also be held to introduce to Chinese travelers what PNG has to offer.
International traveler visits to PNG grew 166 percent during the 2005-2015 period, according to a report of the Asian Development Bank.
The bank has highlighted the tourism potential of the country’s Mount Wilhelm and Baiyer River regions.
PNG is ideal for experiences such as rafting, hiking, sightseeing and birdwatching, Agus says, adding that many cultural festivals and exhibitions are held in the country every year.
Liu Ziqiao had a great time swimming with the dolphins, visiting World War II sites and observing volcanos at close quarters in Rabaul.
He works for Huawei in PNG’s capital, Port Moresby, and takes every opportunity to travel the country in his spare time.
“The country is abundant in natural resources and has a very nice climate,” Liu says.
He and his colleagues would have to return to the mainland, via Hong Kong, but things will be easier soon.
“I heard the direct flight connecting Port Moresby and Shanghai will be running next year, which would make my future visits easier,” he says.