The two-day event is the culmination of a week-long industry awareness campaign by the Tourism Promotional Authority and aims showcase tourism-related products and services to members of the public.

It is hoped that Trade Day on September 28 will generate overseas interest as invited international tour wholesalers and agents will participate in a series of scheduled appointments with Papua New Guinean colleagues.

Also partaking at the event will be representatives from small resorts, hotel groups, tour operators, tourism associations and airlines.

World Tourism Day is a United Nations initiative held every year to promote the industry globally - especially its social, cultural, political and economic value - and highlighting the contribution it can make in reaching the organisation's Millennium Development Goals.

According to the UN, the September 27 date is appropriate because it is when the high season in the northern hemisphere comes to an end and the beginning of the season in the southern hemisphere - a time when tourism is of topical interest to many people.