Japanese Influencers to promote Vanuatu Tourism Attractions
October 22, 2024 9:47 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
By Doddy Morris.
Vanuatu is set to benefit from a series of strategic tourism and business initiatives aimed at increasing awareness and visitor numbers from Japan.
The Pacific Discovery Project, launched on September 9, 2024, by the Pacific Islands Centre (PIC), seeks to highlight the unique attractions and vibrant culture of Vanuatu and other Pacific Island countries.
PIC was established on October 1, 1996, based on the Agreement Establishing the South Pacific Economic Exchange Support Centre signed between the Government of Japan and the Pacific Islands Forum. PIC aims to promote trade, investment and tourism between the Forum Island Countries (FICs) and Japan. Pacific Islands Forum (established in 1971) consists of 14 Forum countries, 2 areas (French Polynesia and New Caledonia), Australia, and New Zealand.
The Pacific Discovery Project aims to raise awareness of the 14 target nations, including Vanuatu, through social media and video content. Japanese influencers will travel to these countries, showcasing local experiences and events, thereby encouraging Japanese tourists to explore the beauty and diversity of the Pacific Islands. This initiative is expected to significantly boost tourism in Vanuatu, which offers stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique marine experiences.
Earlier on September 26, the PIC held a “Vanuatu Business Seminar” at Meiji University, focusing on investment opportunities in Vanuatu. The seminar featured Mr. Alick Robsen Joe, Investment Promotion and Facilitation Manager of the Vanuatu Foreign Investment Promotion Agency (VFIPA). Approximately 30 attendees, comprising professionals from both public and private sectors interested in Vanuatu, engaged in discussions about potential business ventures and tourism investment.
Mr. Joe’s presentation, titled “Exploring Investment Opportunities in Vanuatu,” highlighted the country’s potential as a prime destination for Japanese tourists and investors. A report by Qunie Corporation further detailed the economic prospects for the Pacific Island Countries, reinforcing Vanuatu’s appeal as an investment and tourism hotspot.
The collaboration between PIC and VFIPA, established during the seminar, aims to facilitate stronger ties and promote mutual benefits for both Japan and Vanuatu. As these initiatives unfold, the Pacific Islands Centre is optimistic about the potential growth in tourism and investment, contributing to Vanuatu’s economic recovery and sustainable development.
With these developments, Vanuatu is poised to emerge as a favored destination for Japanese travelers, promising new adventures and cultural exchanges in the Pacific.
The Department of Tourism in Vanuatu and the VFIPA were contacted for comments but are yet to provide a statement in regards with these new development.
