Tourism Fiji has welcomed Dr. Paresh Pant as its new Chief Executive Officer, a move that marks a significant milestone for the organization and the country’s tourism sector. Officially taking on his role this week, Dr. Pant expressed his excitement about the opportunity to lead during what he deemed “an exciting time” for Fiji’s tourism industry, which is demonstrating resilience and steady growth.
Dr. Pant brings over 25 years of experience in tourism, hospitality, and aviation, including notable positions in both Tourism Fiji and the wider Pacific region. He previously served as the Regional Director for New Zealand and Australia, where he played a key role in promoting visitor growth and implementing recovery strategies during challenging times. His extensive experience positions him well to navigate the complexities of the tourism landscape as he takes the helm.
According to recent performance metrics, Fiji has seen a positive influx of tourists, welcoming 735,154 visitors from January to September of this year, which reflects a slight increase of 0.3% compared to the same period in 2024. In September alone, the country received 92,344 visitors, contributing an estimated $320 million in tourism revenue, primarily from holidaymakers representing 82% of total arrivals. This strong performance underscores the ongoing appeal of Fiji as a preferred travel destination.
In his inaugural statements, Dr. Pant acknowledged the achievements thus far but also recognized the risks and challenges ahead. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and the need for the tourism sector to remain agile and prepared for future demands. His goals are centered on delivering value and achieving results that contribute to the sustainable growth of Fiji’s tourism industry.
Adding to the sense of optimism, Dr. Pant highlighted that Fiji has been recognized as one of National Geographic’s 25 Best of the World destinations for 2026, a testament to the country’s breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and commitment to sustainable tourism practices. His vision moving forward includes enhancing partnerships within the sector to create compelling experiences that truly represent the essence of Fiji to the world.
With Dr. Pant’s leadership, there is a palpable sense of hope and positivity surrounding the future of tourism in Fiji. His commitment to sustainable growth and building upon the solid foundations laid by his predecessor, Brent Hill, who saw significant success during his tenure, is anticipated to further elevate Fiji as a top global destination. As the country looks to the future of its tourism industry, the focus remains on not only attracting visitors but also ensuring that the benefits of tourism extend to local communities and resonate with travelers from across the globe.
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