The $28.97 million fiscal 2027 budget for the Guam Visitors Bureau was approved by the Board of Directors on Sept. 17 during its monthly meeting.
The status quo budget directs $12,529,555 to marketing, $7,784,020 to destination development, $7,759,162 for administration and $900,000 toward research.
The marketing budget sets aside $5,356,055 for Korea, $4,900,000 for Japan, $570,000 for Taiwan, $400,000 for the Philippines, and $325,000 for North America source markets.
GVB said work to promote and develop Guam as a visitor destination helps support the tourism industry which affects businesses, jobs, household income and government revenues on island.
“The impact of tourism reaches communities across our entire island, supporting local businesses, jobs, household income and government revenues. Through our marketing, destination development, research, and partnerships, we continue to work toward strengthening the visitor economy and creating opportunities for Guam. We appreciate the Board’s continued guidance and support as we move forward into the new fiscal year," Lee said.
The destination development operating budget allocates $1,360,506 to Destination Management, $2,348,506 toward Visitor Safety, $2,856,000 for Sports and Events and $1,219,008 for Culture and Branding initiatives.
During the meeting, the board also approved fiscal 2027 official travel in the first and second quarters to participate in tourism trade shows, travel fairs, roadshows, educational programs, industry meetings and other activities in key markets, according to the release.
The board also took action on four matters, unanimously approving an authorization to contract legal services for six months; procure a Korea Country Manager to support GVB's representation and engagement in the South Korean market; support the Humatak Mayor's Office village festival and Guam History and CHamoru Heritage Festival and set aside up to $60,000 for GuamTime's Jingle Bell Block Party and coordination for a school chorale competition.