Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka reported that the World Surf League’s Corona Fiji Pro competition generated over $255,000 in media value for Tourism Fiji. Additionally, it garnered 2,300 global public relations hits and created a global advertising value equivalency of more than $50.4 million across 36 countries.
During a parliamentary update on the competition this week, Gavoka emphasized that the extensive media coverage, including live broadcasts and media engagements, effectively highlighted not only the surfing event but also Fiji’s stunning natural beauty to millions of viewers globally.
Gavoka pointed out that the event was backed by major global brands including Corona, Red Bull, Yeti, Shiseido, and Apple Watch, which helped enhance Fiji’s brand recognition.
He stated, “This exposure is invaluable for our tourism sector.” Beyond the international media visibility, Gavoka noted that the competition had positive effects on local communities.
He mentioned that the World Surf League rebuilt the Cloudbreak surf tower, which had been damaged during Tropical Cyclone Harold in 2020, a structure that was operational since the mid-1990s. This tower is now being presented to Tabanivono-i-Wai as a legacy asset to generate income by renting it for other events. Furthermore, he acknowledged the financial contributions made to the Nabila and Momi Villages.
Additionally, the event provided support to the Fiji Surfing Association and the local surfing community through a three-day women’s development program and a water safety initiative. A local surfer was also awarded a wildcard entry into the Fiji Pro Event, along with cash donations and supplies for the Fiji Surfing Association.