Technology is revolutionizing the hospitality industry, enabling AI-driven guest services, streamlined digital booking systems, and intelligent hotel management solutions. Opening the National Hospitality Conference 2025, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka emphasized the need for the tourism sector in Fiji to embrace these advancements to remain competitive.
Gavoka stressed that while technology can enhance the guest experience, it should not replace the authentic warmth that characterizes Fijian hospitality. “We want to ensure that our guests receive the best of both worlds—innovative solutions and genuine, welcoming service,” he stated. He also underscored the importance of building smart tourism solutions that promote efficiency while nurturing human connections.
Additionally, he pointed out the significance of sustainability in tourism. Gavoka urged stakeholders to consider green technologies, from energy-efficient systems to eliminating single-use plastics, thereby aligning economic growth with environmental stewardship. Tourism contributes a substantial 40% to Fiji’s GDP, making it crucial that the sector grows responsibly.
Previous discussions, such as those held at the 2024 Fiji Tourism Convention, highlighted the government’s commitment to sustainable practices through long-term strategies, like the Fiji National Sustainable Tourism Framework 2024-2034. This framework aims to create a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable tourism sector, showcasing Fiji’s proactive approach to integrating economic progress with eco-friendly initiatives.
Through partnerships and innovative thinking, Fiji is poised to not only meet current tourism demands but also pave the way for a sustainable future. The focus on balancing technological advancements with traditional hospitality is promising, pointing to a bright outlook for the industry as it adapts to the evolving global landscape.
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