The Samoa International Visitor Survey 2012- 2013 was launched yesterday evening at the Government Building in Apia.
Hosted by Samoa Tourism Authority (S.T.A.), Prime Minister Tuliaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi gave the keynote address about the research findings from 4,400 tourists surveyed for the report.
“Tourism has become an integral part of our lives since its recognition of its contribution to economic development,” he said.
“And especially its potential in raising the quality of lives for our national households. As well as its capacity in sustaining our authentic Polynesian culture and pristine environment.”
Tuliaepa, who is the Minister for Tourism, said Samoa tracks an average of 130,000 visitors per annum and attracts a little more than $340 million in tourism earnings annually.
This contributes an average of 25 per cent to our national Gross Domestic Product (G.D.P.) per year.
“The International Visitor Survey report that we are launching today is one of the research reports that have been undertaken by the Samoa Tourism Authority and key government agencies,” the Prime Minister said.
“To find out important features and performances of the national tourism products that attract and are appreciated by tourists.
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“As well as to determine the contribution of the same in identified level of satisfaction that is perceived as value for money.
“Or that which exceeds customers or holiday guests expectations of Samoa.”
He said the importance of tourism info is also captured in the recent and ongoing collection of information.
“This International Visitor Survey report provides us with tourists responses of what they liked most about their holiday experience in Samoa,” he said.
“And also of which they had disliked you will find in the report.
“That all of the 4,400 tourists surveyed had honestly disclosed their dislikes or disappointments…which we as a country are now addressing more seriously.”
He told the crowd the report was quite clear.
“Positive aspects are those that we must sustain whilst the weak areas are those that the sector and government are already working to overcome,” said Tuilaepa.
“Plans like this one which would not have been possible if it were not for the great assistance of the New Zealand government and I thank everyone that has contributed to the production of the report and especially the government of New Zealand.
“I trust that all our tourism stakeholders will make good use of the report in the development of existing and future tourism businesses in our country.”
The Prime Minister said reports such as this one would be mainstreamed into the Tourism Development Sector Plan 2014-2018.
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