Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, is at the forefront of Fiji’s delegation at the prestigious ITB Berlin exhibition in Germany, where representatives from over 180 countries are uniting to highlight their tourism sectors. Accompanied by Dr. Paresh Pant, Chief Executive of Tourism Fiji, the delegation is seizing this opportunity to forge partnerships aimed at enhancing Fiji’s visibility in international markets.
Recognized as the leading global tourism trade event, ITB Berlin facilitates direct engagement with prominent European tour operators, aviation partners, wholesalers, and investors, which is instrumental for Fiji’s tourism strategy. Given that tourism plays a vital role in Fiji’s economy—accounting for approximately 40 percent of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product—Gavoka emphasizes the importance of maintaining a robust presence at such global tourism platforms. This is especially crucial as the industry adapts to evolving sustainability standards, digital shifts, and changing expectations from travelers.
Fiji has identified Europe as a high-value market, with the region contributing to 4.7 percent of total visitor arrivals in 2025, including notable numbers from Continental Europe and the United Kingdom. Gavoka’s engagement at ITB reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing air connectivity and promoting a high-value, low-impact tourism model consistent with Fiji’s National Sustainable Tourism Framework.
Furthermore, Fiji is proudly exhibiting alongside other Pacific Island nations, collectively showcasing the significant role tourism plays in fostering economic resilience and climate adaptability for Small Island Developing States. In a recent development, Gavoka highlighted that Fiji has been removed from the European Union’s list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes, a move that he believes will boost confidence in the nation as a reliable destination for investment and tourism.
During ITB Berlin, Fiji will also receive recognition for its outstanding performance in tourism destination management and governance, an honor that will be presented at an event hosted by the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association. This acknowledgment not only showcases Fiji’s achievements in the travel sector but also enhances its reputation on the global stage, promising a bright future for the nation’s tourism industry.