Pacific Tourism Leaders Set Bold Regional Direction at SPTO Board Meeting in Nadi

At the Directors meeting of the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) held on May 6th,2026, in Nadi, the meeting delivered decisive outcomes across governance reform, climate action, private sector engagement through the revised Industry Membership Programme (IMP) and its proposed action plan.

The Board encouraged Member Countries to formally commit to supporting the in-country promotion of the revised IMP in partnership with SPTO, and long-term financial sustainability—signalling a shift toward a more coordinated, resilient, and industry-integrated regional tourism framework.

At the centre of discussions was the continued advancement of the Review of the Regional Architecture (RRA), a critical process shaping how tourism is governed and positioned within the broader Pacific regional system. The Board endorsed stronger advocacy pathways, approving the sharing of key industry insights and reports with Tourism Ministers to elevate tourism priorities to national leadership levels. Strategic guidance was also provided on engagement with the Pacific Islands Forum processes, ensuring tourism remains visible within regional policy dialogues ahead of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.

Significant progress was also recorded in the SPTO Governance Restructure, with the Board approving new private sector representation at the Council level under a Pacific-led inclusive model. This move embeds private sector expertise directly into SPTO’s highest regional decision-making body, strengthening implementation capacity and industry relevance.

Climate action featured prominently, with the Board noting and supporting the newly signed partnership between SPTO and Griffith Institute for Tourism. The collaboration will deliver a Pacific Regional Tourism & Climate Change Action Plan, equipping member countries with the frameworks needed to integrate tourism into national climate strategies and access climate finance mechanisms.

The Board also approved the Pacific Tourism Yachting Strategy 2026–2030, unlocking new opportunities in niche tourism markets, and endorsed strategic changes to SPTO’s engagement at Seatrade to strengthen the Pacific’s presence in the global cruise sector.

The Board also approved in principle Fiji as the host venue for South Pacific Tourism Exchange (SPTE) 2027. The Board noted Fiji’s proposal that, should the SPTE event be hosted in another country, it would subsequently be held in Fiji for the following two (2) years. The Board directed the Secretariat to engage with Fiji as the 2027 SPTE host and report back with confirmed arrangements.

Collectively, the outcomes of the Nadi Board meeting signal a more integrated and action-oriented phase for Pacific tourism. By aligning governance, strengthening partnerships, and prioritising sustainability and data-driven decision-making, SPTO and its members are positioning the region to navigate global uncertainties while driving long-term, inclusive growth.