Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, Hon. Manoa Kamikamica, shared an optimistic vision during a recent address at the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (FHTA) breakfast meeting. His speech articulated the Coalition Government’s commitment to fostering a resilient and inclusive economy, driven by innovation and a strategic roadmap focused on digital transformation, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, and the empowerment of indigenous communities.
Kamikamica emphasized the indispensable role of tourism in this evolving economic landscape, referring to it as a foundational pillar. He noted that Fiji is enhancing its digital infrastructure, including investments in submarine fiber optic cables, secure data centers, and expanded data networks, all of which are vital for the country’s Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector and overall digital economy.
The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted several ongoing reforms designed to attract investment, such as streamlined business registration and the creation of Special Economic Zones focused on clean energy, tourism, and technology. This legislative framework aligns with a broader government initiative aimed at fostering a vibrant private sector that supports micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Brent Hill, CEO of Tourism Fiji, echoed Kamikamica’s sentiments, expressing optimism about the recovery of the tourism sector despite early year challenges. He pointed to aggressive marketing campaigns, particularly in Australia, which have already led to significant results, including over 10,000 room nights booked for a single hotel property. Hill also invited attention to the expanding MSME segment of tourism in Fiji, which offers diverse locally-run tours and experiences.
With nearly one million air arrivals and over 80,000 cruise passengers recorded last year, both Kamikamica and Hill stressed the necessity for continued investment in infrastructure to support sustained tourism growth and improve visitor experiences.
This strategic focus on tourism, alongside initiatives to enhance digital and physical infrastructure, suggests a promising outlook for Fiji. The collaborative spirit between government initiatives and the tourism industry underscores a positive trajectory towards economic resilience, inclusivity, and innovation, positioning Fiji as a potential leader in the Pacific’s evolving economic landscape.
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