The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) has announced the Vanuatu Tourism Office (VTO) as the National Tourism Organisation (NTO) Regional Leader Sponsor for the South Pacific Tourism Exchange (SPTE) 2026, to be held from 25–26 March 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Resort & Spa, Nadi.
SPTE 2026 will bring together tourism sellers and buyers from across the Pacific and key global markets, showcasing the region’s diverse offerings while highlighting emerging and lesser-known destinations. Under the theme “Tourism that Connects: Culture, Climate, Community”, the event will celebrate the Pacific as a shared ocean of cultures, traditions and knowledge systems, ensuring inclusive participation from Pacific Small Island States and territories.
Vanuatu Tourism Office’s role as NTO Regional Leader Sponsor reflects its leadership within the Pacific tourism landscape and its commitment to regional collaboration, sustainable development and resilience-building through tourism. The sponsorship will support enhanced participation by Pacific destinations and strengthen the collective regional voice at SPTE 2026.
SPTO Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker said the partnership underscores the importance of Pacific-led leadership in shaping the future of regional tourism.
“Vanuatu’s role as NTO Regional Leader Sponsor goes beyond visibility at SPTE 2026,” Mr Cocker said. “It represents a shared commitment to strengthening Pacific collaboration, championing sustainable and culturally grounded tourism, and ensuring that all Pacific destinations — particularly smaller and emerging ones — have a strong platform in the global marketplace.”
Vanuatu Tourism Office Chief Executive Officer Adela Issachar Aru welcomed the partnership, describing SPTE 2026 as a vital opportunity to reinforce regional solidarity. Ms Aru said the sponsorship reflects VTO’s strong belief in the collective strength of the Pacific tourism region.
“Our partnership with SPTE is a strategic investment in the shared success of the Pacific,” Ms Aru said. “Vanuatu Tourism is committed to the Pacific Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework, and by supporting SPTE, we are helping to keep the region front of mind for high-value, conscious travellers. As Vanuatu continues to grow its presence in its priority markets, SPTE provides a critical platform to connect our local operators with global buyers. Just as importantly, we see this sponsorship as an opportunity to actively contribute to regional dialogue and collaboration that benefits all Pacific Island nations.”
SPTE 2026 is expected to attract tourism operators, buyers, media and partners from around the world, providing a critical platform for business development, knowledge exchange and regional advocacy. With strong leadership from Pacific National Tourism Organisations such as Vanuatu, SPTE 2026 will continue to position the Pacific as a globally competitive, values-driven tourism region grounded in culture, sustainability and community wellbeing.
