Pacific Tourism Organisation emphasise the need for more Cross-Sector Collaboration to Strengthen Regional Connectivity at the Fiji National University Hospitality Conference

The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) has reaffirmed the importance of stronger cross-sector partnerships in advancing a more connected, resilient and sustainable Pacific tourism industry during the 2026 National Hospitality Conference, hosted by Fiji National University on July 17.

Representing the regional tourism perspective, Cocker presented “The Blue Pacific Economic Engine: Unlocking Growth Through Regional Connectivity and Investment,” highlighting the critical role that collaboration plays in building a thriving visitor economy across the Pacific.

His presentation emphasised the need to strengthen regional connectivity through improved air and maritime access, create enabling environments that encourage responsible investment, foster stronger public-private partnerships, and deepen cooperation between regional organisations, governments, academia and industry.

Speaking during the panel discussion, Cocker said the Pacific’s greatest opportunity lies in its ability to work collectively across sectors to address shared challenges and unlock new opportunities.

“The future of Pacific tourism depends on the strength of our partnerships. No single organisation or sector can achieve sustainable development alone. When governments, tourism, education, sport, development partners and the private sector come together with a shared vision, we create stronger destinations, more resilient economies and greater opportunities for our people.”

He added that regional connectivity extends beyond transport infrastructure.

“Connectivity is about linking people, ideas, knowledge and investment across our Blue Pacific. By aligning our collective strengths and fostering collaboration across sectors, we can drive innovation, enhance destination competitiveness and deliver lasting social, cultural and economic benefits for Pacific communities.”

The conference reinforced the important role that higher education institutions play in developing the next generation of tourism and hospitality professionals while strengthening links between research, industry and policy.

As the region’s mandated tourism organisation, SPTO continues to advocate for integrated approaches that position tourism as a catalyst for inclusive economic growth, environmental stewardship and regional prosperity. Through its Strategic Plan 2025–2029 aligned to the 2050 Blue Pacific strategy, the organisation is working closely with governments, industry partners and regional stakeholders to strengthen destination resilience, improve connectivity and promote sustainable tourism development across the Blue Pacific.