Marianas Visitors Authority launches five strategies to boost education tourism

In a vibrant gathering at the Northern Marianas Commonwealth Legislature, Governor Arnold I. Palacios delivered a compelling address that painted a hopeful picture for the future of the Commonwealth's economy. The meeting, held on May 29, 2025, underscored the government's commitment to revitalizing the tourism sector while embracing diversification to foster sustainable growth.

Governor Palacios emphasized the relaunch of education tourism as a pivotal clean industry, aiming to attract not only hundreds of students but also thousands of their family members. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the tourism sector, including currency fluctuations and shifts in key markets like Japan and China. However, he remained optimistic, stating that tourism continues to be one of the Commonwealth's most vital industries.

Under the leadership of Jamaica Tyrone, the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) is implementing a targeted strategy to adapt to changing visitor expectations. The MVA has identified five key travel trends: promoting wellness and eco-friendly experiences, connecting local educational institutions with international counterparts, catering to digital nomads seeking workcation opportunities, and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Chamorro and Carolinian people. These initiatives aim to enhance the visitor experience while ensuring sustainable growth.

The governor also addressed the economic landscape, noting the bittersweet reality of business closures during challenging times. Yet, he highlighted a silver lining: for every business that has closed in the past two years, four new ones have opened, indicating a robust entrepreneurial spirit in the Commonwealth.

Business leaders echoed this sentiment, with Jameika Tyrone discussing ongoing investments in tourism infrastructure, including renovations at popular sites like Bird Island Lookout. Joe Guerrero, president of the Saipan Chamber of Commerce, shared insights on significant investments made by local businesses, emphasizing the importance of workforce development and education in shaping a resilient economy.

Nadine De Leon Guerrero, network director for the CNMI Small Business Development Center, reported on the successful launch of over 40 new businesses and the creation of more than 1,100 jobs, contributing significantly to the local economy.

As the meeting concluded, the collective message was clear: while challenges remain, the Northern Mariana Islands are poised for a transformative journey, driven by innovation, community investment, and a commitment to a diversified and sustainable economy. The future looks promising, with leaders and citizens alike rallying to create a thriving environment for all.