In September 2024, a total of 16,122 residents left Fiji, as reported by the Fiji Bureau of Statistics (FBoS). The majority of these departures, 92.2 percent (14,864 individuals), were for short-term absences lasting less than three months. Additionally, 451 residents (2.8 percent) were away for longer periods between three months and a year, while 807 residents (5.0 percent) departed for a more extended duration of one year or more.
Among those who left, approximately 835 individuals sought employment opportunities overseas, with their expected duration of stay ranging from three months to five years. The primary reasons for short-term departures included holidays (54.1 percent), visiting friends or relatives (35.0 percent), and business engagements (5.5 percent).
On a positive note regarding tourism, Fiji experienced a record number of visitor arrivals in September 2024, totaling 92,591. This figure marked a 2.4 percent increase from the previous year, although there was a slight decrease of 2.3 percent from August 2024. The majority of visitors (91,679) arrived by air, while 912 came by sea, mostly comprised of seamen and yachts. Notably, 81.6 percent of these tourists had come for holiday purposes, demonstrating the continued allure of Fiji as a travel destination.
This combination of resident departures and tourist arrivals reflects the dynamic nature of Fiji’s demographics and economy. While residents seek opportunities abroad, the rise in tourist numbers showcases the attractiveness of Fiji as a vacation spot, contributing positively to the local economy.
In summary, while many Fijians are pursuing opportunities overseas, the sustained growth in tourism underscores Fiji’s resilience and ongoing appeal in the global travel market.
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