Kiribati’s international border reopening in August 2022 has had a positive impact on employment in the sector, including a 4% increase in recruitment compared to 2021. This is highlighted in the Kiribati Tourism Industry Review 2022 report compiled by the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK). This report brings together data from various sources and partner organisations to present a status of the Kiribati’s tourism sector.
The report also captures the gradual increase in international visitor arrivals since border reopening from 01 August 2022. Whilst year on year (YOY) growth has been slow compared to 2019 pre COVID-19 travel statistics, the report indicates the narrowing of YOY international visitor arrivals from Quarter 4 at 23% less than the 2019 Quarter 4 arrivals. The average length of stay (ALOS) for travellers to Kiribati in 2022 was 12.8 nights.
Domestic travel by air increased by 10% whilst maritime passenger numbers dropped by 18%. The report also provides a breakdown of the travel between Tarawa and Kiritimati although Kiritimati was still closed to international arrivals in 2022.
The report also provides a breakdown of tourism employment by gender, most visited outer islands, and yachting statistics for Kiribati.
TAK wishes to acknowledge the contributions of Air Kiribati Limited; the Marine Guard; Immigration department, Kiribati National Statistics Office, Kiribati Customs Office and the tourism operators and accommodations that supplied data for the purpose of this report.
