AIR Niugini and the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) are proudly showcasing Papua New Guinea at the Travel Madness Expo 2026, one of Asia's largest and most influential travel and tourism events, currently underway at the SMX Convention Center in Manila, Philippines.
The three-day expo, which commenced yesterday(Friday 10th July), brings together hundreds of tourism stakeholders, airlines, travel agencies, hotels and national tourism organisations from around the world, attracting thousands of travel enthusiasts and industry partners.
Air Niugini and PNGTPA's presence at the expo is aimed at raising awareness of Papua New Guinea as a unique and exciting destination for international travellers while strengthening its profile within the growing Asian tourism market. Visitors flocked to the Papua New Guinea booth throughout the opening day, eager to learn more about the country's rich cultural heritage, pristine natural attractions, world-class diving, adventure tourism opportunities and authentic visitor experiences.
Many visitors engaged with representatives from Air Niugini, PNGTPA and participating tour operators, seeking information on travel options, destinations, holiday packages and the many experiences Papua New Guinea has to offer.
Adding colour and cultural vibrancy to the event, the Galomarubu Kitoro Cultural Group from Central Province captivated audiences with authentic cultural dances on the main stage and at the Papua New Guinea booth. Their performances highlighted the country's rich and diverse traditions, drawing significant interest from attendees who gathered to watch, take photographs and learn more about Papua New Guinea.
Together with Air Niugini and PNGTPA, the group helped showcase Papua New Guinea's unique identity to a global audience and demonstrated why the country remains one of the world's most fascinating and undiscovered travel destinations.
The official opening of the expo was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by dignitaries and industry leaders. Papua New Guinea's Ambassador to the Philippines, His Excellency Stephen Pokanis, and Air Niugini Regional Manager Asia, Joshua Koh, joined fellow tourism representatives and partners in officially opening the three-day event.
Mr Koh said Papua New Guinea's participation in major tourism events across Asia remains critical in building destination awareness and generating visitor interest.
"Asia continues to be an important growth market for both Air Niugini and Papua New Guinea. Events such as the Travel Madness Expo provide valuable opportunities to engage directly with travellers, travel agents and industry partners, helping us tell Papua New Guinea's story and showcase the incredible experiences available in our country. We are encouraged by the strong interest shown by visitors and look forward to welcoming more Asian travellers to Papua New Guinea."
Mr Koh has been a passionate advocate for promoting both Air Niugini and Papua New Guinea throughout Asia for some years now. He has played a key role in organising familiarisation tours for travel agents, and tourists enabling them to experience first-hand the country's tourism offerings. His efforts have also ensured that Air Niugini and Papua New Guinea maintain a strong presence at leading tourism exhibitions and trade events across Asia.
Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer, Alan Milne, said the airline remains committed to supporting the growth of Papua New Guinea's tourism sector and strengthening connectivity with key international markets.
"Tourism is an important contributor to economic growth and employment in Papua New Guinea. Air Niugini is proud to work alongside the PNGTPA and our tourism industry partners to position the country as a must-visit destination. By participating in major regional travel exhibitions such as the Travel Madness Expo, we are creating new opportunities for tourism growth while showcasing the very best of Papua New Guinea to international audiences."
The Travel Madness Expo serves as a major platform for airlines, tourism boards, hotels, resorts and travel businesses to promote destinations, generate bookings, strengthen partnerships and encourage year-round travel.
Following the Philippines event, Air Niugini and PNGTPA will continue their tourism promotion activities across Asia, with upcoming travel trade and consumer shows scheduled in Singapore in August and Hong Kong in September.
Source: Air Niugini
These events form part of ongoing efforts to increase awareness of Papua New Guinea, strengthen tourism partnerships and encourage more international visitors to experience the country's extraordinary culture, nature, adventure and hospitality.
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