Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Viliame Gavoka emphasized the significance of the tourism sector as a key driver of Fiji’s economic growth. Speaking at a two-day Tour Guide Training during the Tourism Super Week 2025 at the Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort in Denarau, Nadi, he highlighted that tourism contributes approximately 40% to the nation’s GDP, equating to nearly $3.4 billion annually and attracting around 1.06 million visitors, including cruise arrivals.
Gavoka expressed the government’s goal of ensuring equitable distribution of tourism benefits across all 14 provinces in Fiji, noting that currently, tourism is predominantly centered in Nadroga/Navosa and Ba. He remarked on the need for inclusive growth, stating, “Everyone must have a piece of that cake,” which aligns with Fiji’s National Tourism Sustainable Framework aimed at expanding tourism opportunities throughout the country.
This approach mirrors previous initiatives like the Na Vualiku Program, which focuses on promoting sustainable tourism development, particularly in less-visited areas such as Vanua Levu and the sunshine coast in Ra. By fostering community-based tourism and enhancing local involvement, the government aims to uplift regional economies and create a more balanced tourism sector.
Gavoka’s remarks come on the heels of Fiji’s successful tourism performance, which showed resilience even amidst global challenges. The expected increase in visitors in the coming years signifies a hopeful outlook for the tourism industry, as it remains a vital sector for economic recovery and growth for the Fijian community.
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