SPTO Leads Sustainable Tourism Discussion at Asia-Pacific Francophone Youth Forum in Tahiti, Focusing on Eco-Tourism, Youth Employment, and Digital Innovation

Published on November 28, 2025

From November 12 to 15, 2023, the South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) took center stage at the Asia-Pacific Francophone Youth Forum in Tahiti, co-hosted with the Vietnamese Youth and the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF). This forum, bringing together young leaders from across the globe, focused on addressing the challenges facing the tourism industry, particularly sustainability, youth employment, and the role of innovation and digital transformation in shaping the future of tourism.

Advocating for Sustainable Tourism in the Pacific

One of the key themes at the forum was sustainability in tourism, a crucial topic for the Pacific region, where many island nations heavily rely on tourism for economic growth. SPTO emphasized the importance of integrating sustainability into tourism development to ensure future generations can continue benefiting from the region’s natural and cultural resources. The organization promoted eco-tourism, cultural heritage tourism, and community-based tourism as methods for economically developing the Pacific islands while preserving their environment.

Empowering Youth through Tourism Employment

SPTO also highlighted the growing opportunities for youth employment in tourism. With the tourism industry in the Pacific expanding, there are increased chances for young people to build careers, gain new skills, and contribute to their local economies. The SPTO is working closely with partners to provide training, internships, and career pathways for youth, particularly in areas like sustainable tourism management and new technologies. This effort aims to build a skilled workforce for the Pacific region, ensuring that the tourism sector remains sustainable and future-ready.

Digital Transformation and Innovation in Tourism

The digital evolution of the tourism industry was another major focus. SPTO discussed the role of innovation and digital transformation in enhancing tourism experiences and improving operational efficiency. The organization stressed the importance of digital marketing, technology adoption, and data-driven solutions for small businesses in tourism. By incorporating smart technology, SPTO believes the Pacific can improve destination marketing, enhance the tourist experience, and unlock new economic benefits.

Strengthening Regional Cooperation with Francophone Countries

The forum also provided a unique opportunity to strengthen the Pacific’s relationships with other Francophone nations in the Caribbean and Africa. By sharing insights and best practices on sustainable tourism, SPTO was able to deepen cross-region collaboration and advocate for inclusive tourism that meets both local and global demands. This cooperation will be crucial in overcoming challenges such as over-tourism, the climate crisis, and the digitalization of tourism.

A Vision for the Future: Sustainable Pacific Tourism

The Asia-Pacific Francophone Youth Forum in Tahiti offered invaluable insights into how the tourism industry can adapt to meet the evolving needs of the global travel market. SPTO aims to continue advocating for the integration of youth, eco-sustainability, and innovation in the tourism sector. With the increasing focus on digital transformation and environmental responsibility, the SPTO is empowering future leaders to ensure that the Pacific’s tourism assets are protected and preserved for generations to come.

Conclusion: SPTO’s Role in Shaping the Future of Tourism

The participation of SPTO in the Asia-Pacific Francophone Youth Forum marked a significant step in its ongoing mission to develop a sustainable tourism industry in the Pacific. By engaging with young leaders and fostering partnerships focused on eco-tourism, innovation, and youth employment, SPTO is helping pave the way for a more inclusive and sustainable tourism future in the region. The organization’s efforts at the forum reinforced its commitment to advocating for a tourism industry that benefits both people and the planet.