A million visitors are expected to visit Fiji this year – Gavoka

Following strong visitor arrival numbers last year, a million visitors are expected to visit the country this year which will be another historic achievement for Fiji.

This has been confirmed by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Viliame Gavoka while opening the Asia-Pacific Hotel Industry Conference and Exhibition (AHICE) Fiji Investment In Tourism Summit in Nadi this morning.

Gavoka says in 2023, the industry broke the visitor arrival record, welcoming 929,740 visitors who contributed an estimated $3.2 billion to the Fijian economy.

He says it is safe to say, tourism remains Fiji’s growth driver and where the opportunities are and it is where the investment needs are.

Gavoka further says Fiji Airways just weeks after joining the OneWorld alliance as a full-fledged member, will adopt American Airlines’ AAdvantage program as its official frequent flyer scheme.

He says they are also looking at new direct routes to the US, which ultimately means more visitors to Fiji.

The Deputy Prime Minister says as demand surges, so does the need for new investments, particularly in hotel capacity.

He says in the upcoming budget, they are extending the Short Life Investment Package tax holiday to investors who acquire existing hotels and undertake renovations and refurbishments of more than $50 million.

Gavoka says they have increased the marketing budget through Tourism Fiji and will continue to strategically drive reforms to make it easier for investors, to invest in Fiji and the Fijian brand.