Many tourists visiting Fiji originate from nations that are increasingly moving towards cashless transactions. This trend makes it vital for local businesses to have access to reputable international payment providers such as Stripe, PayPal, and Flywire. According to Watesoni Nata Jr., chair of the MSME Council, this would facilitate access to various global booking and sales platforms, enabling businesses in Fiji to receive payments directly into their local bank accounts.
Mr. Nata, speaking at the Fiji Tourism Convention 2024 in Nadi, expressed surprise that the COVID-19 pandemic did not resolve ongoing payment issues within the industry. He noted that most businesses that utilize online payment gateways still depend on offshore companies and accounts to process their revenues.
He emphasized the urgent need to tackle these challenges to unlock significant market opportunities for small and community-based enterprises. In addition, Mr. Nata highlighted the necessity to enhance incentives for businesses that wish to engage in conservation leases.
He advocated for the government and the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) to support tourism operators interested in land conservation efforts. He called for a review of the incentives for these conservation leases, suggesting that such agreements should not be classified solely as tourism leases but should include appropriate valuation and acknowledgment of the ecosystem services they aim to protect.