Pacific Specialist Healthcare Hospitals (PSH Hospitals) founder Parvish Kumar has urged for tax incentives in the upcoming national budget to bolster medical tourism in Fiji. Kumar’s call comes as he confirmed PSH Hospital’s sponsorship of the forthcoming Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) Business Forum, themed “Fiji’s Economic Preview — the Next Fiscal Budget and Beyond,” set to be held at the Tanoa International Hotel next week.
Expressing alignment with the Fijian government’s vision for medical tourism development, Kumar emphasized the need to engage stakeholders for the promotion of this sector. He voiced intentions to advocate strongly for the abolition of Value Added Tax (VAT) on all medical services, consumables, and equipment and to propose substantial tax incentives for medical tourists, believing these measures could significantly enhance Fiji’s potential as a medical tourism hub.
Kumar highlighted PSH’s readiness, stating, “While the hospital has initiated steps to promote medical tourism, what is needed is support in terms of tax holidays to realize our ambitions.” He believes that a resort-style hospital model, which PSH exemplifies, could attract a large number of international patients.
In continuation of this theme, Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Viliame Gavoka, echoed the importance of developing the nation’s healthcare infrastructure to support both local residents and medical tourists. Gavoka cited the necessity of enhancing healthcare options, noting Fiji’s goal to emulate successful models, such as India’s, which draws many patients seeking medical attention.
With only about two percent of visitors engaging in health and medical activities in Fiji in 2022, there is enormous potential for growth in the medical tourism sector. Previous reports have indicated that PSH has already made significant strides, notably establishing a cardiology department and performing its first open-heart surgery, which underscores its capability and readiness to attract international patients seeking high-quality medical care.
The forward-looking strategies articulated by Kumar and other officials highlight a promising future for medical tourism in Fiji, suggesting that with continued investment and supportive policies, the nation could significantly benefit economically, while enhancing healthcare standards for all.
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