New Data from Tonga’s 2024 Tourism Survey Reveals Rising Economic Contributions and Travel Trends in the Pacific Islands

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The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), in collaboration with Tonga’s Ministry of Tourism, Tonga Tourism Authority, and Tonga Statistics Department, has released its 2024 International Visitor Survey (IVS) report, capturing the latest data on tourism trends in Tonga. The survey, part of the New Zealand Government-funded Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI), provides detailed insights into visitor behaviors, demographics, and the economic impact of tourism on Tonga.

The IVS gathered responses from 205 participants—160 adults and 35 children—over six months from January to June 2024, representing about six percent of total visitors to Tonga during this period. Key highlights include visitor demographics, such as country of origin, age, gender, and primary motivations for travel. Notable factors drawing visitors to Tonga included its rich cultural heritage, relaxing environment, warm weather, and family and friend connections.

During the survey period, Tonga welcomed approximately 26,720 international visitors by air, contributing an estimated $42 million USD to the nation’s economy.

SPTO Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker emphasized the value of the PTDI in delivering actionable tourism insights, aiding policymakers and businesses across the Pacific region in fostering sustainable tourism growth. “This report is a testament to SPTO’s dedication to providing accurate, data-driven insights that benefit both Tonga and other Pacific Island nations in understanding and advancing tourism,” Cocker stated.

The PTDI initiative spans ten Pacific nations, including Tonga, and encompasses the IVS, a Business Confidence Index (BCI), and a Community Attitudes Survey (CAS). These tools are pivotal in generating data for informed decision-making among governments, businesses, and communities across the Pacific.