Research and Statistics
To ensure timely and quality statistics and research, through collaborative partnerships, are readily available to all tourism stakeholders for decision and policy-making.
Pacific greetings from the Research & Statistics Team! The Pacific Tourism Organisation acknowledges the importance of research and statistics as a key strategic priority in developing the region as a competitive and highly visited tourism destination. In hindsight, the COVID-19 pandemic has provided individual countries and the Pacific region with an opportunity to reset, rethink and rebuild tourism back to be more resilient and sustainable. A range of tourism research initiatives have been and continue to be undertaken in the Pacific region. Recognising the invaluable contribution of such research and knowledge to the recovery planning efforts of Pacific Island Countries during these unprecedented times, SPTO brings clear and concise travel & tourism research and insights to Pacific Island Countries, partner organisations, private sector and development partners is fundamental in moving forward.
Strategic Objectives
Develop Core Indicators
Establish a set of core sustainable tourism indicators for regular production by countries to support the PSTPF, national and regional strategic plans, and the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Build Collaborations and Partnerships
Foster collaborations and partnerships between users and producers of tourism statistics, and national and regional organizations.
Improve Data Management
Enhance data management processes and procedures for the production, compilation, and dissemination of statistical data.
Enhance Information Quality
Improve the quality, timing, detail, and coverage of national and regional information related to tourism sustainability, including the evaluation of new sources.
Evaluate and Improve Statistical Skills
Assess and enhance statistical skills and competencies.
Division Role and Functions
The Research and Statistics Division’s primary goal, as highlighted in Strategic Priority 3 of the SPTO Strategic Plan 2020-2024, is to ensure timely and quality statistics and research are readily available to all tourism stakeholders for decision and policy-making. This goal is achieved through collaborative partnerships and a focus on three strategic areas:
- Action: SPTO will work closely with tourism offices, statistics offices, and technical experts to develop and strengthen systems for data collection and analysis.
- Outcome: Improved quality, timeliness, and reliability of statistical information, supporting effective planning, policy development, and strategic decision-making at national and regional levels.
- Action: SPTO will strengthen relationships with regional partners such as the Pacific Community (SPC) and the Pacific Data Hub, as well as national and regional research institutions. This includes consulting with members to assess needs, challenges, and gaps in tourism statistics and research.
- Outcome: Increased capacity and skills development among national statistics officers, ensuring coherence with regional statistics programs and prioritizing members’ research needs through ongoing engagement.
- Action: SPTO will explore options for utilizing new digital technologies and appropriate platforms to connect statistical information to stakeholders. This includes becoming the hub of Pacific tourism research and information.
- Outcome: Enhanced market intelligence and targeted research capabilities, enabling timely and informed responses to challenges such as the impact of COVID-19 on Pacific Island economies, and supporting sustainable tourism policies and development outcomes.
For any other queries, please contact the Manager, Research and Statistics at: pparkas@spto.org.