Casinos are recognised for their significant role in tourism and are a proven means of both attracting and prolonging international visitation. Research indicates that casinos prolong visitors’ stay in a city and stimulate expenditure. The World Tourism Organisation concludes that they also stimulate the local economy surrounding the casino, bringing in more people, more often to the area, creating demand for year-round entertainment.

China presents a massive opportunity for PNG’s tourism industry, whose growing middle class is forecast to account for a quarter of all international tourism by 2030. 80% of Chinese first-time international tourists visit a casino, and 90% of Chinese visitors to the USA visit Las Vegas. With regular direct flights between Port Moresby and Guangzhou in place since December 2023, this market presents a growing opportunity for PNG, particularly where improved tourism infrastructure is in place, such as hotels, attractions, tours and day trips.

Cruise tourism, which is seeing a resurgence post COVID, is another opportunity for new tourism. It has been the fastest growing travel industry sector for the past 20 years, averaging 7.5% year on year. Australia is the world’s 5^th largest cruise market, with the South Pacific its most popular route. Cruise itineraries that feature Port Moresby are limited, and cruise operators need destinations with various attractions to dock.

A casino, as part of a suite of tourist attractions at Paga Hill Estate, as well as the planned upgrade of the city’s t-wharf to a cruise terminal, will help PNG capture a share of these opportunities.