UN Tourism Strengthens Data Capacity Across Asia and the Pacific

International

Regional workshop in Brunei brings together 100 participants from 11 Member States to advance integrated, policy-relevant tourism data.

The three-day programme focused on economic, social and environmental dimensions of sustainable tourism measurement.

UN Tourism has reinforced its support for national tourism and statistics institutions across Asia and the Pacific, helping countries produce more reliable and integrated data for evidence-based policymaking. The latest initiative, the Regional Workshop on Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism, took place in Bandar Seri Begawan from 18–20 November 2025 and gathered over 100 representatives from 11 UN Tourism Member States.

Hosted by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism of Brunei Darussalam, the workshop provided a platform for peer learning, practical exercises and discussions with international experts. Delegates included representatives from National Tourism Authorities, National Statistics Offices and related government institutions.

Focus on Practical Tools for Measuring Sustainability

Over three days, participants explored the use of the Statistical Framework for Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism (MST) and related instruments such as the Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) and the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA). Technical sessions highlighted how these tools can help countries capture tourism’s economic contribution, social impacts and environmental footprint with greater precision.

Strengthening Coordination and Data Governance

Case studies and group exercises examined opportunities to improve institutional coordination between tourism and statistics agencies, enhance data governance, and integrate information systems for destination managCrediement. Discussions covered topics such as tourism employment, community perceptions and environmental impacts.

Commitment to Regional Cooperation

The workshop underscored the region’s collective commitment to advancing robust tourism measurement as the foundation for sustainable and resilient tourism development. By fostering regional cooperation and peer-to-peer learning, UN Tourism aims to help Member States produce policy-relevant data that supports national strategies and long-term planning.