Tourism in Fiji is experiencing a recovery, although it has not yet reached desired levels, according to the Reserve Bank of Fiji’s June 2025 Economic Review. Visitor arrivals in May totaled 86,587, reflecting a 4.4 percent increase compared to the same month last year. This growth was primarily driven by an uptick in visitors from the US, UK/Europe, and Canada, despite overall visitor numbers for the year being down by one percent.
The drop in total arrivals is attributed to declines from major markets, traditionally important for Fiji’s tourism. Arrivals from Australia decreased by 2.7 percent, and New Zealand saw an even steeper drop of 8.1 percent. The bank noted that various factors are influencing these trends, including severe flooding in New South Wales, the recent Australian federal election, and changes in travel patterns amid ongoing global uncertainties.
Interestingly, growth from the Pacific Islands and the US has helped mitigate the overall decrease, with industry feedback suggesting hopes for a rebound during the peak season of July to September, bolstered by targeted tourism marketing efforts.
In a related note from previous reports, tourism in Fiji had shown signs of resilience earlier this year, with arrivals in April at 80,363, indicating a gradual recovery aligned with promotional efforts. The previous year had set a high standard with nearly one million visitors, showcasing Fiji’s appeal as a travel destination.
The Reserve Bank emphasizes that maintaining momentum in tourism is vital for job creation, generating foreign earnings, and ensuring broader economic stability. With continued investment in marketing and infrastructure, there is hope for further strengthening of Fiji’s tourism sector and overall economic growth in the coming months.
This optimistic outlook resonates with earlier sentiments expressed by tourism officials, who remain confident about the future prospects of Fiji’s tourism industry despite current challenges. With strategic initiatives in place, there is potential for the tourism sector to emerge as a crucial component of Fiji’s recovery and growth.
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