Last month, a total of 16,122 residents left Fiji, as reported by the Fiji Bureau of Statistics (FBoS) in their September 2024 resident departures data. The majority of these departures—14,864 individuals, representing 92.2 percent—were for short-term absences lasting less than three months. Additionally, 451 residents (2.8 percent) left for between three months and a year, while 807 individuals (5.0 percent) departed for longer durations of one year or more.
Among those leaving for short-term absences, 835 individuals sought employment opportunities abroad, with stay durations ranging from three months to five years. The primary reasons for short-term departures included holidays (54.1 percent), visiting friends and relatives (35.0 percent), and business purposes (5.5 percent). Other motivations encompassed education and training (2.0 percent), varied personal reasons (2.0 percent), and employment (1.4 percent).
Concurrently, provisional figures revealed that Fiji welcomed 92,591 visitors in September 2024, marking a record for that month and a 2.4 percent increase compared to the previous year. However, this figure represented a slight decline of 2.3 percent from August 2024, which recorded 94,787 arrivals. Most visitors (91,679) arrived by air, while a smaller number (912) came by sea, primarily involving seamen from fishing vessels (798) and yacht arrivals (114). A significant portion (81.6 percent) of these visitors came for holiday purposes, with others visiting for personal reasons (8.0 percent), business (2.0 percent), or various other motivations (8.4 percent).
This data indicates a dynamic movement in both resident departures and tourist arrivals, showcasing the different facets of Fiji’s connectivity to the world. The increase in tourist arrivals suggests a growing interest in the beautiful destination, potentially boosting the local economy and fostering cultural exchange.
In summary, while many residents are seeking opportunities abroad, the tourism sector in Fiji appears to be thriving, making it a promising time for the nation as it continues to welcome visitors who contribute to its vibrant culture. This dual trend of departure for economic pursuits and an influx of tourists illustrates the adaptability and resilience of Fiji’s population and economy.
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