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Tourism in Kiribati 

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Tourism in Kiribati is big business. But why? And how should this important industry be managed? Read on to find out…

Tourism in Kiribati

Geography of kiribati, the tourism industry in kiribati, faqs about tourism in kiribati, to conclude: tourism in kiribati.

Kiribati, a nation of atolls and islands in the central Pacific, is gaining prominence in the global tourism landscape due to its pristine beaches and unique cultural experiences. This article examines the tourism industry in Kiribati, underscoring its attractions and the economic implications for the island nation.

Kiribati is a small island nation located in the central Pacific Ocean. The country consists of 33 coral atolls and islands, with a total land area of only 811 square kilometres (313 square miles). The capital and largest city is Tarawa, which is located on the atoll of the same name.

The country is divided into three main island groups: the Gilbert Islands, the Phoenix Islands, and the Line Islands. The Gilbert Islands, which include Tarawa, are the most populated and developed of the three groups. The Phoenix Islands are largely uninhabited and protected as a marine conservation area, while the Line Islands are located farther east and are home to some of the most remote and sparsely populated islands in the world.

The islands of Kiribati are low-lying and vulnerable to rising sea levels, which is a significant environmental challenge for the country. The climate is tropical, with warm temperatures and high humidity year-round. The islands receive a lot of rainfall, particularly between November and April, which can cause flooding in some areas.

Kiribati is located near the International Date Line, which means that the country is divided between two different time zones. The westernmost islands are in the same time zone as Fiji, while the easternmost islands are in the same time zone as Hawaii.

Kiribati is a small and remote island nation that is not widely known as a tourist destination. However, the country has a unique cultural heritage and natural environment that could potentially attract visitors seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Tourism is a relatively new industry in Kiribati and is not yet a significant contributor to the country’s economy. However, the government has identified tourism as a potential growth area and is working to develop the necessary infrastructure and services to support the industry.

The main attractions for tourists in Kiribati are its pristine beaches and coral reefs, which offer opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving. The country is also known for its traditional dances and music, which are performed at cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Visitors can also explore the historic and cultural sites on the main island of Tarawa, including the Betio War Memorial and the Ambo Island Japanese Shrine.

Tourism in Kiribati 

There are a limited number of accommodations and tourist services in Kiribati, with most visitors staying in small guesthouses or eco-lodges. The lack of infrastructure, including reliable transportation and telecommunications, can make travel in Kiribati challenging, but it also contributes to the country’s unique and untouched character.

Overall, tourism in Kiribati is still in its early stages of development, but the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage offer potential for growth in the industry.

10 key statistics about tourism in Kiribati

Now lets put things into perspective. Here are some statistics about tourism in Kiribati:

  • In 2019, Kiribati received 6,016 international visitors, according to the Pacific Tourism Organisation.
  • The majority of international visitors to Kiribati come from Australia, New Zealand, and Japan.
  • The country’s tourism industry employs approximately 400 people, according to the Kiribati National Statistics Office.
  • There are only a few hotels and guesthouses in Kiribati, with a total of around 150 rooms available for tourists.
  • The average length of stay for international visitors to Kiribati is around six nights.
  • The tourism industry contributed an estimated 0.5% of Kiribati’s GDP in 2018, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council.
  • The country’s main airport, Bonriki International Airport, received around 34,000 international passengers in 2018.
  • Kiribati’s tourism industry is still in its early stages of development, with limited infrastructure and services for tourists.
  • The country’s natural environment, including its beaches and coral reefs, are the main attractions for tourists.
  • The government of Kiribati has identified tourism as a potential growth area and is working to develop the necessary infrastructure and services to support the industry.

Tourism in Kiribati 

The most popular tourist attractions in Kiribati

Now lets take a look at why tourism in Kiribati is so popular by highlighting the range of tourist attractions:

  • Swimming and snorkelling in the pristine waters around the islands of Kiribati, including the clear lagoon at Christmas Island.
  • Exploring the historic and cultural sites on the main island of Tarawa, including the Betio War Memorial and the Ambo Island Japanese Shrine.
  • Attending cultural events and festivals, such as the Kiribati National Day celebrations in July and the Tobwaan Kiribati cultural festival in November.
  • Visiting the Phoenix Islands Protected Area, one of the largest marine conservation areas in the world, which is home to a diverse range of marine life and coral reefs.
  • Discovering the unique handicrafts of Kiribati, including traditional woven mats and baskets made from pandanus leaves.

Tourism in Kiribati 

  • Watching the traditional dances and music of Kiribati, which are performed at cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
  • Exploring the remote and sparsely populated Line Islands, which offer a chance to experience a truly untouched natural environment.
  • Learning about Kiribati’s history and culture at the Kiribati National Museum, which is located in Tarawa.
  • Fishing for tuna, marlin, and other game fish in the waters around Kiribati.
  • Taking a guided tour of the main island of Tarawa to learn about the country’s culture, history, and way of life.

The most popular types of tourism in Kiribati

There are a range of different types of tourism in Kiribati, including:

Cultural tourism: Visitors can explore the unique culture and traditions of Kiribati, including its traditional dances, music, handicrafts, and festivals.

Ecotourism: Kiribati’s natural environment is its main attraction, with opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, fishing, and exploring its remote islands and coral reefs.

Adventure tourism: Kiribati offers opportunities for adventurous travellers to explore its remote islands, including hiking, camping, and island hopping.

Historical tourism: Kiribati has a rich history, including its involvement in World War II, and visitors can explore the country’s historic sites and monuments.

Volunteer tourism: Some visitors to Kiribati choose to participate in volunteer programs, helping to improve the lives of local people through education, healthcare, and community development initiatives.

It’s important to note that Kiribati’s tourism industry is still in its early stages of development, and the infrastructure and services available for tourists are limited. Visitors should be prepared for a more rustic and basic travel experience, but one that offers unique opportunities to explore a truly remote and unspoiled environment.

  The economic impacts of tourism in Kiribati

There are many impacts of tourism in Kiribati, both good and bad, that must be taken into consideration to ensure sustainable tourism management. Now, lets take a look at some of the most prevalent:

Job creation: The tourism industry creates jobs for local people, including tour guides, hotel staff, restaurant workers, and transportation providers.

Income generation: Tourism provides income for local businesses, such as hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, which helps to support the local economy.

Foreign exchange earnings: Tourism brings in foreign currency, which can be used to pay for imports and other expenses, helping to reduce Kiribati’s reliance on aid and other external sources of funding.

Economic diversification: Tourism provides an opportunity for Kiribati to diversify its economy and reduce its reliance on fishing and other primary industries.

Infrastructure development: The development of tourism infrastructure, such as hotels, restaurants, and transportation networks, can also benefit the local community by improving access to services and amenities.

However, it’s important to note that tourism development in Kiribati must be managed carefully to ensure that it is sustainable and does not have negative impacts on the environment or the local community. In addition, the country’s limited infrastructure and resources may make it challenging to develop a thriving tourism industry without significant outside investment and support.

The social impacts of tourism in Kiribati

Positive impacts:

Cultural exchange: Tourism can facilitate cultural exchange and foster greater understanding and appreciation between visitors and local communities. This can help to preserve and promote Kiribati’s unique culture and traditions.

Community development: Tourism can provide an opportunity for the local community to develop and improve their infrastructure, such as roads, sanitation systems, and community facilities, which can have wider social and economic benefits beyond the tourism industry.

Improved quality of life: Tourism can provide local people with access to new services and amenities, such as improved healthcare, education, and entertainment facilities.

Negative impacts:

Cultural erosion: Mass tourism can lead to cultural erosion as traditional practices and customs are adapted or changed to meet the expectations of tourists.

Social disruption: The arrival of large numbers of tourists can lead to social disruption, particularly in small communities that are not accustomed to dealing with large crowds of visitors.

Exploitation: Tourism can create opportunities for exploitation of local people, particularly through low-wage jobs and the sale of cultural artefacts or other goods.

It’s important to manage tourism development in a way that maximises the positive impacts and minimises the negative impacts on the local community. This may involve engaging with local stakeholders, implementing responsible tourism practices, and investing in community development initiatives that benefit both tourists and local people.

T he environmental impacts of tourism in Kiribati

Conservation: Tourism in Kiribati can generate support for conservation efforts, such as protecting coral reefs and other natural habitats, and promoting sustainable fishing practices.

Awareness: Tourism in Kiribati can raise awareness about environmental issues and promote eco-friendly practices among both tourists and local residents.

Alternative livelihoods: Tourism can provide alternative livelihoods for local people that are less damaging to the environment, such as ecotourism and sustainable agriculture.

Resource depletion: Mass tourism can lead to overuse of natural resources, such as water and energy, and contribute to waste generation and pollution.

Habitat destruction: Tourism infrastructure development, such as the construction of hotels and resorts, can lead to habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity.

Climate change: Tourism can contribute to climate change through greenhouse gas emissions from transportation, accommodation, and other activities associated with tourism.

It’s important to manage tourism development in a way that maximises the positive impacts and minimises the negative impacts on the environment. This may involve implementing sustainable tourism practices, promoting responsible environmental behaviour among tourists, and investing in conservation initiatives that benefit both tourists and local people.

Tourism in Kiribati 

Now that we know a bit more about tourism in Kiribati, lets answer some of the most common questions on this topic:

What is the best time of year to visit Kiribati?

Answer: The best time to visit Kiribati is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This period generally has lower humidity and less rainfall, making it a more comfortable time to visit.

Is it safe to drink the water in Kiribati?

Answer: It is generally not recommended to drink tap water in Kiribati. It’s best to drink bottled water or water that has been boiled or treated.

What is the local currency in Kiribati?

Answer: The local currency in Kiribati is the Kiribati dollar. However, the Australian dollar is also widely accepted and is often the preferred currency for tourists.

What languages are spoken in Kiribati?

Answer: The official languages of Kiribati are Gilbertese and English. However, Gilbertese is the most commonly spoken language among the local population.

What types of accommodations are available in Kiribati?

Answer: There are limited accommodation options in Kiribati, including basic guesthouses, hotels, and a few eco-resorts. There are no luxury hotels or major international chains.

Tourism in Kiribati 

Are there any cultural customs or etiquette to be aware of in Kiribati?

Answer: Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions in Kiribati, such as removing shoes before entering a home or place of worship, and avoiding public displays of affection.

What are some popular activities for tourists in Kiribati?

Answer: Popular activities in Kiribati include swimming, snorkelling, fishing, cultural tours, and exploring the many atolls and islands of the country.

Are there any health concerns to be aware of in Kiribati?

Answer: Visitors should be aware of the risk of mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue fever and Zika virus, and take appropriate precautions such as using mosquito repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing.

Is it easy to get around in Kiribati?

Answer: There is limited public transportation in Kiribati, and travel between islands can be challenging. Most visitors opt to hire a local guide or take a tour to explore the islands.

Do I need a visa to visit Kiribati?

Answer: Visitors from many countries, including the United States and Australia, do not require a visa to enter Kiribati for stays of up to 30 days. However, it’s always best to check the latest visa requirements before travelling.

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Encyclopedia of Tourism pp 1–2 Cite as

Kiribati Tourism

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Kiribati is located in the Pacific Ocean and straddles the equator from north of Fiji through to south of Hawaii, the United States (Fig. 1 ). It has a total land mass of 811 km 2 (313 mi 2 ). Over half of the 110,136 population live in urbanized South Tarawa (Ministry of Finance and Economic Development 2016 ). It is a lower-middle income country, with a GDP of US$181 million (Pacific Community 2020 ).

figure 1

Map of Kiribati

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Ministry of Finance and Economic Development. 2016. Census report 2015 volume I final report: Kiribati Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, Government of Kiribati.

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———. 2017. Kiribati 20-year vision 2016–2036 kv20: Kiribati Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, Government of Kiribati.

Ministry of Information, Communication, Transport and Tourism. 2021. Ministry of information, communication, transport and tourism strategic plan 2021–2024, Government of Kiribati.

Pacific Community. 2020. Pocket statistical summary = Résumé statistique de poche: 2018 . Noumea: Pacific Community.

South Pacific Tourism Organization. 2017. Annual review of visitor arrivals in Pacific Island countries: 2016 . Fiji: South Pacific Tourism Organisation.

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Hornby, G. (2021). Kiribati Tourism. In: Jafari, J., Xiao, H. (eds) Encyclopedia of Tourism. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-01669-6_652-2

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Kiribati Economic Impact Report 2023

Report details.

This latest report reveals the importance of T&T to this economy in granular detail across many metrics. The report’s features include: ‍ • Absolute and relative contributions of T&T to GDP and employment, international and domestic spending • Data on leisure and business spending, capital investment, government spending and outbound spending • Tables ranking the economy against other competing destinations and benchmarked against the world and regional average across various metrics • Charts comparing data across every year from 2013 to 2023 • Detailed data tables for the years 2017-2022, plus forecasts for 2023 and the decade to 2033 Purchase of this report also provides access to two supporting papers: Methodology and Data Sources and Estimation Techniques.

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Tourism Authority Kiribati

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kiribati tourism economy

TAK Launched Kiribati Sustainable Tourism Policy and Strategic Plan 2024-2026

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) launched its Kiribati Sustainable Tourism Policy (KSTP) along with the Strategic Plan 2024-2026 during the Ministry of Tourism, Commerce, and Industry Cooperatives Business Awards held on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at the Sport Complex, Betio.

In presenting the documents, the Minister of Tourism, Commerce, and Tourism Cooperatives, the Honourable Minister Mr. Booti Nauan, shared that the KSTP aims to transform Kiribati into a wealthier, healthier, and more peaceful country that aligns well with relevant global and regional sustainable development frameworks and the Kiribati Government’s 20 year (KV20) Vision.

He added that this was the first-ever Kiribati Sustainable Tourism Policy, resulting from the collaboration between the Ministry and the Asian Development Bank’s Pacific Private Sector Development Initiative (ADB-PSDI), engaging a multitude of stakeholders within the Government and across local businesses and host communities.

While the Kiribati Sustainable Tourism Policy and strategic plan signify an important milestone in our tourism development journey, it also envisions growth that will enable our natural environments to flourish, our socio-cultural values to thrive, and guarantee economic prosperity across our remote islands and communities.

To fulfil these ambitions, it will require a whole of government and whole of nation approach and I look forward to your continued valuable support as we endeavour to transform Kiribati into achieving its high level goals and to minimize the negative impacts of tourism while maximizing its benefits, the Honourable Minister highlighted.

The event was attended by the Kiribati Vice President and Honourable Ministers from Ministry of Education, Ministry of Employment and Human Resources, Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Ministry of Infrastructure and Sustainable Energy, Members of the Diplomatic corps, Kiribati Chamber of Commerce, and the business stakeholders.

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The  Tourism Authority of Kiribati is responsible for working with our partners to encourage travelers to come to Kiribati and spend time exploring our country.

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Pacific Economic Growth Slowing After Post-Pandemic Rebound

Pacific Economic Update March 2024

Investment in education critical to address significant learning gaps, foster sustainable growth, report finds.

SUVA, March 6, 2024 — Growth in Pacific island countries is estimated to have slowed in 2023 and is forecast to continue to decelerate in 2024 and 2025 as the temporary boost from the COVID-19 pandemic recovery fades and fiscal policies begin to tighten, the World Bank said in its semi-annual economic outlook for 11 Pacific island countries.

Investments in key drivers of long-term growth—education, in particular—will be crucial to sustaining economic momentum, the World Bank’s new report, Pacific Economic Update – Back on Track? The Imperative to Invest in Education says.

Growth in 2023 among the Pacific island countries surveyed eased to an estimated 5.5% following a historically high expansion of 9.1% during 2022, the first year of recovery from the pandemic. Economic activity was buoyed by tourism, household consumption and remittances, and was further supported by accommodative fiscal policies. The report covers Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Palau, Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.

Collectively, these countries are projected to expand 3.5% in 2024 and 3.3% in 2025, which would still be the fastest rates since 2017, excluding the pandemic bounce-back expansions in 2022 and 2023.

Moderating growth across Pacific island countries in 2023 reflects the slowdown in still-resilient Fiji, which accounts for more than half of the group’s output. Fiji is estimated to have decelerated to 8% in 2023 after surging 20% in 2022. After having returned to pre-pandemic GDP levels in 2023, supported by the resurgence of tourism and robust consumption, Fiji’s growth is expected to normalize toward its long-term rate.

In the rest of the region, a slight acceleration in growth is anticipated. However, the output is not expected to exceed its pre-pandemic GDP level until 2025. Solomon Islands, the second-largest economy in the group, is estimated to have reversed a 4.1% contraction in 2022 with 1.9% growth last year, driven by hosting the Pacific Games and substantial investments in energy and transport. It is forecast to pick up to 2.8% in 2024.

“Despite a commendable rebound in growth after lifting pandemic restrictions, growth among the PIC-11 countries will face challenges in achieving the full recovery of output growth to its pre-pandemic path,” said World Bank Senior Economist in the Pacific, Ekaterine Vashakmadze. “Fundamental reforms to invigorate investment growth can help improve medium-term growth prospects.”

Tourism and remittances-led countries, such as Samoa, Tonga, and Palau have experienced a notable rebound in growth after three consecutive years of contraction. This revival is attributed to a robust recovery in visitors, particularly from Australia and New Zealand. Countries [with income led] by sovereign revenue—Kiribati, Nauru, Tuvalu, FSM and Marshall Islands—experienced a relatively mild contraction in 2020 and are now experiencing positive, albeit moderate growth.

The report underscores the significance of pending Compact Agreements between the United States and FSM, Marshall Islands, and Palau to achieve projected growth rates. If approved, these agreements could create substantial fiscal space, presenting an opportunity for more public investment initiatives.

Short term risks to the outlook have been more balanced as commodity prices and inflation have eased .

 “However, risks remain as adverse shifts in the global economy, trade, and tourism may pose challenges to the economic prospects and poverty outcomes. Those could stem from an uncertain global environment, most notably, heightened geopolitical tensions,” added World Bank Senior Economist Reshika Singh .

A special focus chapter on developing human capital in the Pacific emphasizes that investment in education – through quality and well-resourced, evidence-based teacher training, and ensuring that children are taught in their first language – can deliver immense economic dividends for individuals, families, and society. In Tonga, for example, teacher training investments were found to increase students’ future incomes by more than $12 for every dollar spent.

However, in most Pacific Island countries, more than half of 10-year-olds do not meet international benchmarks in reading. In some countries (Kiribati, Tonga, and Tuvalu) two-thirds of 10-year-olds fall short of these standards. A notable exception is Palau, where 90% of 10-year-olds meet international benchmarks in reading.

“If Pacific children struggle to read proficiently by the end of primary school, they will face daunting hurdles to succeed in their further education,” said World Bank Lead Economist for Human Development in the Pacific, Lars M. Sondergaard . “While the situation is improving, progress is slow. The most important asset that Pacific island countries have is not their natural or physical resources, or their geographical location; it is their people.”

Pacific Economic Update – Back on Track? The Imperative to Invest in Education is available online.

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Climate Action In Tourism A Key Focus For Kiribati

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Climate Action In Tourism A Key Focus For Kiribati

kiribati tourism economy

In an interview for the Glasgow Declaration Climate action in Tourism Newsletter, Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) CEO and SPTO Board Chairman Petero Manufolau shared insights into what SPTO and TAK are doing to progress the aspirations of the Glasgow Declaration.

 “This vision for the future of the Pacific tourism industry has its roots in the Pacific Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework (PSTPF), Pacific Tourism Statistics Strategy (PTSS), and SPTO Digital Strategy (DS). In this regard, SPTO as the regionally mandated body for Tourism has a critical role to play in coordinating and representing its 20 Pacific Island members to ensure that these strategies will be used to shape tourism activity that contributes positively to Pacific regionalism. Pacific-wide tourism transformation will be hindered by failure to effectively communicate and innovatively collaborate, towards achieving a smarter and stronger industry that is more resilient, responsive, inclusive, and sustainable,” he said.

Moreover, he added that the pandemic presented TAK with an important opportunity to re-evaluate tourism and its real contribution to the economy, community, and environment.

“On the back of the international climate change agenda, of which Kiribati is a strong advocate of, TAK will lead the tourism sector in playing an active role in reducing the industry’s negative impact on the environment, community, and economy. We recognise that the tourism sector must commit to adopting internationally accepted sustainable operational standards for tourism operators as framed in the Kiribati Sustainable Tourism Development Policy Framework”.

The Glasgow Declaration aims to unite those leading tourism’s transformation around a common set of pathways for climate action by defining a consistent sector-wide approach to climate action in the coming decade; outlining the specific actions that will accelerate tourism’s ability to achieve net zero as soon as possible; and encouraging signatories to demonstrate their support for scaling up the sector’s response to the climate emergency. 

The full interview can be accessed here

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Kiribati’s unique economic structure

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With 110,136 people spread across 33 atolls and 3.5 million square kilometres of ocean, Kiribati faces significant economic and service delivery challenges. In addition to being one of the most vulnerable countries in the world, and one most affected by climate change, other challenges stem from a highly dispersed population, remoteness to major markets, lack of arable land, a narrow economic base, and the dual problems of sparse outer island communities and heavy overcrowding in the capital.

This blog series  looks at the challenges facing Pacific island countries graduating from least developed country (LDC) status, focusing on Kiribati, whose graduation is currently under review. This blog focuses on Kiribati’s economic structure, an understanding of which is essential to appreciate the likely impact of LDC graduation .

Let us compare the economic structure of Kiribati with other Pacific and small island developing countries: Samoa and the Maldives (which have already graduated), and Vanuatu (which is facing graduation in 2020). Presented below is the economic structure of each country just prior to LDC graduation.

kiribati tourism economy

Source: UNESCAP

As shown above, the economic structure of Kiribati differs markedly from the other three countries. Most striking is the reliance on fishing, which accounts for 26.1 per cent of the Kiribati economy, compared to an average of 2.0 per cent across the other three. There is also a much heavier reliance on government consumption (25.7 per cent in Kiribati versus an average of 10.3 per cent for the others).

Among its three peers, the retail and services sectors made up the majority of the economy even prior to graduation from LDC status, and was also the major source of growth. In contrast, between 2011 and 2016, Kiribati grew an average 6.2 per cent per annum, with most of this coming from fisheries (26.2 per cent), government consumption (21.1 per cent), and construction (20.7 per cent) – the latter two being funded through increases in fisheries revenue and donor programs. Across a similar period:

  • The Vanuatu economy grew 1.8 per cent per annum, driven by construction (27.5 per cent), retail goods and services (26.3 per cent) and government consumption (19.4 per cent).
  • The Samoan economy grew 2.8 per cent per annum, driven by general commerce (46.0 per cent), personal and other services (18.6 per cent) and transport (13.9 per cent).
  • The Maldives economy grew by 3.4 per cent per annum, driven by tourism and related industries (35.5 per cent), communications (21.1 per cent), and construction (17.6 per cent).

The case of Vanuatu shares some common elements with Kiribati in relation to public spending and construction, but none of the other three substantively changed the value they extracted from their fisheries resources (except for a small rise in Samoa in 2017/18, well after Samoa had graduated from LDC status), nor did any country advance through widespread industrialisation (the ‘typical’ development path). It is also notable that none of the other three countries have a scheme similar in economic size to Kiribati’s copra subsidy scheme, which accounted for 9.3 per cent of GDP in 2016, is given directly to copra growers, and contributes to an industry worth only 0.5 per cent of GDP.

From this perspective, it is clear that the economic and development policies that would be appropriate for Kiribati will not necessarily match those of its peers.

Most importantly, the role of the public sector in Kiribati is likely to be a much more important driver, given its share of GDP. Indeed, the story of recent economic growth in Kiribati is intrinsically tied to the ability of the government to increase its spending, with an almost complete dependence on public spending to support economic activity. This expanded fiscal capacity has been supported by buoyant fishing license revenues. In particular, the increase in the value of a purse seine fishing day license from US$1,350 in 2011 to US$8,000 in 2016 dramatically increased the financial capacity of the government to finance a much-expanded budget, and rapidly increased Kiribati’s GDP. In terms of total revenue, fishing licence revenue in 2011 was just US$29.1 million (17 per cent of GDP), but by 2015 revenue had risen to an estimated US$197.8 million (88 per cent of GDP) and has remained at historically high levels in subsequent years.

Figure 2: Fishing license revenue in Kiribati 2011-2017

kiribati tourism economy

This rapid expansion in fisheries revenue had a material impact on the fiscal position of the government, with large surpluses accumulating over 2014 and 2015 (see Figure 3). These surpluses contributed to a significant improvement in the government’s cash position, and allowed the government to make notable contributions to the Kiribati Sovereign Wealth Fund (the Revenue Reserve Equalisation Fund, or RERF): non-RERF cash balances increased from US$20.4 million in January 2016 to an estimated US$173.5 million by the end of 2018, and the RERF balance grew from US$679.0 million in 2014 to an estimated US$994.4 million by the end of 2018 (due in part to a US$50 million deposit in 2015 and a US$70 million deposit in 2016). However, between 2015 and 2018 we can also see a sustained increase in government expenditure; initial increases were in capital expenditure, with later years also showing an increase in operational spending. With no revenue increases since the peak of 2015, this additional expenditure served to significantly reduce the budget balance.

kiribati tourism economy

This growth in fisheries revenue is likely to plateau as price increases for purse seining days cannot continue in perpetuity and the number of fishing days allowable within the Kiribati EEZ needs to stay within sustainable limits in order to maintain viability of the fishery. This essentially means that, subject to fish spawning and migration patterns, the amount of rent that the Kiribati government can extract from the fisheries resource is capped by the willingness of distant water fishing fleets to pay for higher prices on tuna fishing days, the sustainability of the stock, and the limited capacity of Kiribati to derive onshore (processing) benefits from its fish stock.

So if there are limits to the rents that can be extracted from fisheries resources, where will the future economic growth for Kiribati come from? What strategies can Kiribati adopt to continue its development trajectory? Will graduating from LDC status make this more difficult?

Stay tuned.

This blog is part of a series . Find the first blog here . 

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Related posts:

  • Bringing the Pacific islands closer by investing in its people
  • I-Kiribati female seasonal workers in New Zealand for the long haul
  • The Pacific is not a geostrategic chessboard
  • A whole-of-island approach: UNDP in Nauru
  • A fully integrated Blue Pacific: our near-term ambition

kiribati tourism economy

James Webb is a Senior Policy Fellow at the Development Policy Centre and also works as an independent consultant in the Pacific Region.

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Kiribati For Travellers - Kiribati National Tourism Office

Mauri ... this is Hello and Welcome in Kiribati!

Kiribati is for travellers – those who have a passion for exploring and discovering, people who like an adventure off the tourist trail to places where few have been before, and people who want to understand a country – not just see it. Kiribati will challenge your view of how life should be and show you a less complicated way of living where family and community come first.

Situated in the equatorial pacific, in the east Kiribati offers world class fishing (both game and bone fishing) from Kiritimati Island . In the west is the Gilbert Group of islands, which offer amazing and unique cultural experiences. The country’s capital of Tarawa has historic sites and artefacts where one of the bloodiest battles of World War II , the Battle of Tarawa.

If you are visiting as part of your work, we would encourage you to explore Kiribati to experience these delights – South Tarawa should not be the only Atoll you visit when you have 33 to choose from, even the nearby North Tarawa offers a very different perspective!

kiribati tourism economy

We Are Ready For You

Travel info.

Here’s a quick breakdown of all of the practical information that you need to know when planning a trip to Kiribati

Places To Stay

Check out our list of best places to stay in Kiribati and book your accommodation online

What's New?

Read our blog to learn a little more about what’s on offer in Kiribati

See You in Kiribati

kiribati tourism economy

IMAGES

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  2. Development and importance of tourism for Kiribati

    kiribati tourism economy

  3. Kiribati

    kiribati tourism economy

  4. Kiribati : Un Pays à Visiter ? Découvrez Ce Petit Paradis Méconnu

    kiribati tourism economy

  5. Kiribati For Travellers

    kiribati tourism economy

  6. Kiribati

    kiribati tourism economy

COMMENTS

  1. Tourism industry and its impact on Kiribati's economy

    The burgeoning tourism industry in Kiribati presents both opportunities and challenges for the nation's economy. By examining the current state of tourism, its economic implications, and the potential for sustainable growth, we seek to offer valuable insights for individuals and businesses seeking to engage with Kiribati's tourism sector.

  2. Kiribati Tourism Industry Review 2020 Report

    The report reveals an 82% year on year (YOY) drop in international visitor arrivals in 2020 and the subsequent reduction in tourism employment by 61%. In revenue, the border closure from the end of March 2020 resulted in an estimated minimum loss of approximately AUD2.2m in tourism earnings to the Kiribati economy.

  3. PDF Pacific Tourism Sector Snapshot

    The public sector dominates Kiribati's economy, and the contribution of tourism is small. Tourism contributed around $9.2 million in receipts in 2018. Estimates of the sector's contribution to gross domestic product vary from 5% to below 2%.1 Tourism employed an estimated 449 I-Kiribati in 2019, which represents just under 2% of the

  4. Tourism In Kiribati

    The average length of stay for international visitors to Kiribati is around six nights. The tourism industry contributed an estimated 0.5% of Kiribati's GDP in 2018, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council. The country's main airport, Bonriki International Airport, received around 34,000 international passengers in 2018.

  5. Tourism Authority of Kiribati launches the PSDI-supported Sustainable

    The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) on 13 January 2024 launched the destination's first ever Sustainable Tourism Policy, alongside it's 2024-2026 Strategic Plan. ... that is not only a source of sustainable economic development, but also serves as a stimulus for conserving the country's natural and cultural heritage and a vehicle for ...

  6. Kiribati Tourism Industry Review Q2 2021 Report

    The Tourism Authority of Kiribati has released the Kiribati Tourism Industry Review for the second quarter of 2021. The report highlights that the domestic lockdown imposed in South Tarawa following the country's first case of contained COVID-19 infection in May 2021 reduced domestic sea travel by 30%. On the other hand, domestic air travel ...

  7. PDF Kiribati Sustainable Tourism Development Policy Framework

    Goal 5 - Tourism will contribute to national economic prosperity. 5.1 Adopt a high yield (value) low volume approach to tourism development. 5.2 Improved tourism economic data collection and analysis. 5.3 Develop and implement a structured tourism licensing, fees, and visitor environment levy program. 23.

  8. Kiribati

    Kiribati. Released on May 09, 2023. Kiribati factsheet. Discover the total economic contribution that the Travel & Tourism (T&T) sector brings to this economy and the world in this data-rich, two-page factsheet.

  9. Kiribati

    Kiribati - Towards 2030. March 4, 2021. Pillar 1 of the Government of Kiribati (GoK) 20-year vision (KV20) recognises that sustainable tourism will contribute to economic development through employment and job creation, income generation, as well as supporting the retention of cultural traditions, management of national environmental assets ...

  10. Kiribati Tourism

    Kiribati is located in the Pacific Ocean and straddles the equator from north of Fiji through to south of Hawaii, the United States (Fig. 1).It has a total land mass of 811 km 2 (313 mi 2).Over half of the 110,136 population live in urbanized South Tarawa (Ministry of Finance and Economic Development 2016).It is a lower-middle income country, with a GDP of US$181 million (Pacific Community 2020).

  11. Kiribati Tourism Takes a Sustainable Leap with Historic Policy Launch

    As the KTSP takes effect, it is expected to shape the trajectory of Kiribati's tourism sector, setting a benchmark for responsible tourism that respects and preserves the nation's unique cultural heritage. creating a harmonious balance between economic growth whilst protecting the environment and resources upon which tourism depends. The ...

  12. Kiribati Economic Impact Report 2023

    The report's features include: ‍. • Absolute and relative contributions of T&T to GDP and employment, international and domestic spending. • Data on leisure and business spending, capital investment, government spending and outbound spending. • Tables ranking the economy against other competing destinations and benchmarked against the ...

  13. THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF TOURISM IN KIRIBATI

    The Republic of Kiribati has recently begun to consider tourism development as a means of generating much needed foreign exchange and expanding employment opportunities. Following a brief description of the demand and supply characteristics of the industry, the role that tourism plays within the Kiribati economy is considered. A multiplier model focuses attention on the effects of visitor ...

  14. Kiribati Sustainable Tourism Development Policy Framework Launched

    These goals include the commitment that tourism must protect the natural environment, it must preserve Kiribati's cultural and historical heritage, promote community & social well-being, guarantee visitor satisfaction, health, and safety, contribute to national economic prosperity, inspire green entrepreneurship and to influence effective ...

  15. TAK Launched Kiribati Sustainable Tourism Policy and Strategic Plan

    The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) launched its Kiribati Sustainable Tourism Policy (KSTP) along with the Strategic Plan 2024-2026 during the Ministry of Tourism, Commerce, and Industry Cooperatives Business Awards held on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at the Sport Complex, Betio. ... and guarantee economic prosperity across our remote ...

  16. Is tourism the answer for Kiribati?

    This post explores the attempts at economic diversification with a particular focus on a key area of Kiribati Vision 20: tourism development. Not only is tourism a major focus of Kiribati Vision 20, the government is also putting its money where its mouth is with the recent purchase of two Embraer 190-E2 aircraft for an estimated cost of $37 ...

  17. Economy of Kiribati

    The Republic of Kiribati's per capita Gross National Product of US$1,420 (2010) makes it the poorest country in Oceania. Phosphates had been profitably exported from Banaba Island since the turn of the 20th century, but the deposits were exhausted in 1979. The economy now depends on foreign assistance and revenue from fishing licenses to finance its imports and development budget.

  18. Kiribati Tourism Statistics 1995-2024

    Economy. U.S. Economic Charts. GDP by Country GDP Per Capita by Country Manufacturing by Country Debt to GDP Ratio by Country. Global Metrics. ... Kiribati tourism statistics for 2017 was 5,170,000.08, a 66.77% increase from 2005. Kiribati tourism statistics for 2005 was 3,099,999.90, ...

  19. Pacific Economic Growth Slowing After Post-Pandemic Rebound

    Economic activity was buoyed by tourism, household consumption and remittances, and was further supported by accommodative fiscal policies. The report covers Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Palau, Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.

  20. Kiribati

    The capital and government centres are at Ambo, Bairiki, and Betio, all islets of South Tarawa in the northern Gilberts. Kiribati and Tuvalu were formerly joined as the Gilbert and Ellice Islands Colony. The name Kiribati is the local rendition of Gilberts in the Gilbertese, or I-Kiribati, language, which has 13 sounds; ti is pronounced /s/ or like the word see—thus Kiribati, pronounced ...

  21. Pacific Islands face challenges as growth slows, says World Bank

    Tourism and remittances played an important role in Fiji, which posted 8% growth in 2023, less than half of the strong 20% economic rebound seen in 2022, but above pre-pandemic levels.

  22. Climate Action In Tourism A Key Focus For Kiribati

    "On the back of the international climate change agenda, of which Kiribati is a strong advocate of, TAK will lead the tourism sector in playing an active role in reducing the industry's negative impact on the environment, community, and economy. We recognise that the tourism sector must commit to adopting internationally accepted ...

  23. About Us

    The Kiribati National Tourism Office undertakes the following activities: The KNTO has offices on both Tarawa and Kiritimati Atolls. Please contact us on [email protected] with any enquiries you might have. Or you can call us on our directline +686 25573 / 26003 and ask for the Tourism office. If there is anything more you would like ...

  24. Kiribati's unique economic structure

    The Maldives economy grew by 3.4 per cent per annum, driven by tourism and related industries (35.5 per cent), communications (21.1 per cent), and construction (17.6 per cent). ... It is also notable that none of the other three countries have a scheme similar in economic size to Kiribati's copra subsidy scheme, which accounted for 9.3 per ...

  25. Kiribati For Travellers

    Kiribati is for travellers - those who have a passion for exploring and discovering, people who like an adventure off the tourist trail to places where few have been before, and people who want to understand a country - not just see it. Kiribati will challenge your view of how life should be and show you a less complicated way of living ...