Papua New Guinea was awarded the Best Booth in the National Tourism Organisation category at the 2026 Travel Madness Expo held in Manila, Philippines from July 10 to 12. The event gathered over 170 tourism organisations, airlines, hotels, resorts, and travel agencies from across the Philippines and Asia.
Papua New Guinea’s Exhibition Highlights
The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) and national carrier Air Niugini jointly represented the country at the expo. The exhibition highlighted Papua New Guinea’s cultural diversity, natural attractions, and tourism products including diving destinations, birdwatching sites, trekking adventures, cultural festivals, island escapes, coffee, traditional artefacts, and authentic experiences. Support from
industry partners featured Kokopo Beach Bungalow, Karanas Tours, Dynasty Seafood Restaurant, Alibi Bar & Grill, Akura, Daikoku Japanese Restaurant, Cuppa Cafe, Asia Aromas, and PNG Coffee.
Official Statements on Award and Collaboration
Alan Milne, Chief Executive Officer of Air Niugini, said the award demonstrates the results of collaboration between Air Niugini, PNGTPA, and Papua New Guinea’s tourism operators. “This recognition is a wonderful achievement for Papua New Guinea. It demonstrates what can be accomplished when the national airline, PNGTPA and our tourism operators work together to showcase our country as a vibrant, welcoming and authentic destination,” Milne said. Joshua Koh, Air Niugini Regional Manager Asia, who
coordinated the airline’s participation, described the award as an unexpected bonus. He credited the achievement to everyone involved: “This award belongs to everyone who contributed to the Papua New Guinea stand, including PNGTPA, our tourism operators, hotel partners and the Air Niugini team.”
Context of the Travel Madness Expo and Future Plans
The Travel Madness Expo is one of Asia’s largest consumer travel exhibitions, providing opportunities for destination promotion, launching travel packages, forging partnerships, and attracting international visitors. Following the Manila event, Papua New Guinea plans to advance its tourism promotion at the NATAS Travel Fair in Singapore from August 21 to 23, 2026, and the Holiday and Travel
Expo in Hong Kong from September 25 to 27, 2026.
