KOROR (Island Times/Pacnews) — Palau’s tourism industry experienced robust growth in May 2024, welcoming a total of 4,475 visitors. This represents a 2% increase from April 2024 and a 78% rise compared to May 2023, according to the latest figures released by the Palau Visitors Authority.
China continued to be the leading source of arrivals, contributing 33% of the total visitors. Taiwan followed with 21%, and the U.S. and Canada combined accounted for 19%. The European market represented 11% of arrivals — its highest share recorded this year.
Japanese visitors comprised 8% of the total, reflecting a decline since their peak in March. South Korean arrivals registered the lowest monthly figure so far, with only 1% while other countries collectively made up 8%.
In May 2024, there were seven air services to Palau: five scheduled flights and two charter flights, in addition to private planes and sailing yachts that brought in visitors.
China Airlines of Taiwan led with 32% of the arrivals for the month, closely followed by Cambodia Airways at 31% and United Airlines at 27%. Batik Air, Nauru Airlines, and Pacific Mission Aviation Palau together accounted for less than 7% of the arrivals.
China Airlines predominantly served passengers from Taiwan, making up 66% of its arrivals, with Europe next at 16%. United Airlines primarily catered to visitors from the U.S. and Canada (62%) and Japan (18%).
This growth in visitor numbers marked a positive trend for Palau’s tourism sector, reflecting increased interest and improved accessibility to the island nation. The diverse mix of visitors from various regions underscores Palau’s appeal as a global tourist destination.
