Overview:
Palau’s tourism is bouncing back in a big way! From January to October 2025, international arrivals jumped 25% over last year, with China, Taiwan, and the U.S.-Canada leading the way. Strong growth from Europe and Australia, fueled by new flights, points to a record year for the island nation.
By: L.N. Reklai
KOROR, Palau (December 2, 2025)— Visitor arrivals to Palau jumped 25% in the first 10 months of 2025, driven by growth across all major tourism markets and boosted by new flight routes and targeted promotion, according to a visitor summary report.
From January through October, Palau recorded 57,370 international arrivals, up from 45,890 during the same period in 2024. China remained the nation’s strongest source market with 19,060 arrivals, a 25% increase year-on-year, representing 36% of October arrivals and 33% of total visitors so far this year.
Taiwan followed with 11,304 arrivals, up 13% from 2024 and contributing 15% of October arrivals. Visitors from the United States and Canada totaled 9,734, also reflecting a 13% increase and accounting for 19% of monthly arrivals.
Japan registered 5,322 visitors, a 17% increase compared to 2024, supported by the launch of a new Narita–Palau flight route in late October. Europe posted one of the most significant gains with 4,271 arrivals, up 64%, attributed to strong outreach and new travel product offerings.
Australia recorded the largest percentage jump of any market — up 94% year-on-year to 2,290 visitors — buoyed by new direct Qantas flights and aggressive promotion. South Korea saw arrivals rise 43% to 794, while arrivals categorized as “Others” reached 4,595, up 49%, helping diversify Palau’s tourism base.
The report notes that recovery in outbound travel from China, expanded flight access, and global marketing campaigns continue to shape the upward trend. Late-year seasonality may further elevate arrivals during the holiday travel peak.
Based on year-to-date performance, Palau averages 5,737 visitors per month. If that pace continues through December, the Republic is projected to close 2025 with approximately 68,800 total visitors.
No major markets recorded a decline compared to last year, with Japan and Taiwan showing comparatively moderate but steady growth.
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