As Fiji has already welcomed 640,274 visitors until August this year, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Viliame Gavoka says it seems highly likely that Fiji could reach 1 million visitors by the end of this year.
While opening the 2024 Fiji Tourism Convention at Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort in Nadi, Gavoka says to reach 1 million visitors, we need about 90,000 per month.
He says with July and August already surpassing that average, he is confident that through their continued efforts in marketing, air connectivity expansion, infrastructure development, and improvement and a strong commitment to sustainable tourism practices, Fiji will hit and possibly exceed this goal.
Gavoka says last year, Fiji's tourism sector surpassed expectations having received a record 929,740 visitors who contributed $3.3 billion to the visitor economy.
He says this marks a 4 percent increase above pre-pandemic levels—a clear sign that our tourism industry is not only recovering but forging ahead stronger than ever.
He further says they are reviewing Fiji’s Aviation Policy and considering Open Skies on a case-by-case basis, guided by national interests.
Gavoka says they can already see the benefits with the Dallas direct flight scheduled for the end of this year as this also gives Fiji access to and from Europe.
The Deputy Prime Minister also highlighted that this year’s World Tourism Day theme is “Tourism and Peace” which is quite fitting with everything happening around the world.
He says the truth and reconciliation process has also gained momentum.
The Deputy Prime Minister says granted, this approach is fraught with difficulties, and there are many roadblocks along the way, however, candid and frank truth-telling is a journey that Fiji must take if we are to right the wrongs of the past and acknowledge the rights and aspirations of all who call Fiji home.
He says only through this process can Fiji continue to become a safer and more harmonious place for all.
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