As the release of the national budget approaches, the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (FHTA) is calling for a renewed emphasis on infrastructure development from the government. FHTA Chief Executive Fantasha Lockington expressed the need for the Finance Ministry to focus on delivering tangible results rather than just outlining plans.
Lockington highlighted that significant tourism projects, particularly in northern Fiji and in areas like Wailoaloa, are currently stalled due to inadequate essential services such as power, water, and sewage systems. She stated that developers are unable to proceed without sufficient infrastructure, emphasizing that reliable power and access to water are critical prerequisites for any hotel construction.
“Infrastructure is paramount,” Lockington asserted. “There are development plans that cannot advance due to insufficient power supply, limited water availability, and critical issues with waste management. Our sewage systems are already operating beyond their capacity, making it difficult to support new developments.”
In her remarks, Lockington also touched upon the challenges faced by smaller operators in the tourism sector, who are being disproportionately affected by rising costs and outdated regulations. While tourism has historically been a significant contributor to the Fijian economy, she warned that the slow pace of progress poses a real threat to ongoing growth.
During the recent AGM of the FHTA, Lockington pointed out that the association’s board is committed to fostering regional balance and ensuring the inclusion of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The addition of a new member representing the Mamanucas, Yasawas, Taveuni, Vanua Levu, and the dive industry further enhances the board’s diversity, allowing it to better reflect the broad spectrum of the tourism industry in Fiji.
Lockington acknowledged that while tourism may not be ideal for every community, the FHTA is prepared to collaborate wherever it is welcomed. As the association approaches its sixth decade of operation, Lockington reiterated that infrastructure development is essential for future progress in tourism, stating, “We cannot move forward without it.”
The sentiments shared by Lockington resonate with broader discussions in the tourism community, particularly as Fiji’s tourism sector looks to navigate challenges associated with labor shortages, operational costs, and regulatory frameworks. These ongoing dialogues aim to foster a more resilient and robust future for the industry.
The emphasis on infrastructural investment and transformation underscores a hopeful outlook for the Fijian tourism sector, proposing that with the right developments, the region can continue to thrive and attract new visitors while benefitting local communities.
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