Na Vualiku MSME program to boost North tourism this year – Gavoka

MSMEs in the Northern Division are expected to get a boost as the Na Vualiku Pilot MSME program will be launched this calendar year, offering cost-shared business development services, small grants to community-based tourism groups, and targeted support for women, cultural enterprises, and operators to enhance market readiness and resilience.

This has been confirmed by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Viliame Gavoka while supporting the 2025-2026 National Budget.

He says they are unlocking the Northern Division’s tourism potential—and ensuring that its people participate meaningfully in the industry’s growth.

Gavoka says $30 million has been allocated to the Na Vualiku Program, funded in partnership with the World Bank.

The Deputy Prime Minister further says in the first five months of this year alone, Fiji received 350,000 visitors, and we remain on track despite global challenges.

He says the most visited regions in Fiji are Denarau with 22 percent of visitor numbers, followed by the Coral Coast at 21 percent, Nadi at 17 percent, Suva/Tailevu at 13 percent, the Mamanuca Islands at 10 percent, and the Yasawas at 4 percent.

Gavoka further says in line with their commitment to expanding air connectivity to underserved locations within Fiji, the Coalition Government will undertake a feasibility study for the proposed development of a new airport in the Yasawas.

He says they are anticipating its potential to boost tourism, improve access for local communities, and contribute to national development.

He also confirmed that they are developing Fiji’s first-ever Civil Aviation Master Plan and they have begun a comprehensive review of the Civil Aviation Act 1976 which will be completed in the new financial year.