During the Third Fiji Tourism Convention held in Nadi, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, urged Fiji’s tourism industry to adopt a future defined by transparency, accountability, and collaboration. His remarks celebrated the sector’s achievements, particularly the impressive visitor arrival rates that have significantly contributed to the nation’s economy.
Gavoka highlighted a key milestone for Fiji’s tourism, noting that the arrival of over a million visitors by air and sea represents a modest growth of 0.3%. He emphasized that while government initiatives are crucial, the sector’s success is deeply rooted in the efforts of dedicated individuals—including hoteliers, tour guides, chefs, dive masters, farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs—who are pivotal in maintaining the vitality of the industry.
Expressing a positive outlook, Gavoka forecasted a steady growth trajectory, predicting a 3.4% expansion in 2025 following a 3.5% increase in 2024. This optimism reflects the recognized strength of the tourism sector, which is a global powerhouse, and underscores Fiji’s need to align with global growth trends.
The Minister also stressed the critical importance of resilience, inclusivity, and readiness to adapt to future challenges within the tourism sector. The two-day convention, themed “Tourism beyond Boundaries,” serves as an essential platform for key government agencies, industry leaders, and international stakeholders. They gather to discuss vital policies, address challenges, and explore opportunities for sustainable growth, facilitating Fiji’s ongoing success in the ever-evolving global tourism landscape.
As the industry navigates these changes, the emphasis on collective effort and collaboration positions Fiji to leverage its natural beauty and cultural richness effectively, ensuring long-term prosperity and sustainability in tourism.