In September 2024, a notable 16,122 residents of Fiji traveled abroad, according to data released by the Fiji Bureau of Statistics (FBoS). The majority of these departures, approximately 14,864 individuals or 92.2 percent, were for short-term stays lasting less than three months. A smaller segment, consisting of 451 residents or 2.8 percent, planned to be away for a period extending from three months to less than a year. Additionally, 807 individuals, representing 5.0 percent, departed for longer-term absences of one year or more.
In seeking job opportunities overseas, around 835 individuals left Fiji, with anticipated stays ranging from three months to five years. The reasons for the short-term departures were varied, with holidaying being the primary driver for 54.1 percent of individuals. Other motivations for travel included visiting friends and family (35.0 percent), conducting business (5.5 percent), and pursuing educational or training opportunities (2.0 percent), alongside other reasons.
On a related note, October saw a record number of visitor arrivals in Fiji, totaling 92,591, which marks a 2.4 percent increase compared to September of the previous year, although it was a slight decline of 2.3 percent from August 2024’s impressive figure of 94,787. Most visitors, 91,679, arrived by air, while a smaller number, 912, came by sea, mainly comprising seamen and yacht arrivals. Holidaymakers made up the vast majority of these visitors at 81.6 percent, with additional reasons including visiting friends and family (8.0 percent), business engagements (2.0 percent), and others (8.4 percent).
The trends highlighted by the FBoS paint a dynamic picture of Fiji’s mobility landscape. While many residents are exploring opportunities or leisure abroad, the influx of tourists showcases the country’s popularity as a travel destination. This dual movement suggests a vibrant economy supported by both outbound travel for personal advancement and inbound tourism, benefiting local industries and communities.
Overall, this suggests a hopeful future for Fiji, indicating resilience and adaptability in an ever-changing global landscape.
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