Tourism growth in Fiji is facing significant challenges due to worker shortages, increasing operational costs, and outdated regulations. Fantasha Lockington, CEO of the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (FHTA), shared these concerns during a recent Nadi Business Forum, highlighting that while the demand for visitors remains strong, systemic issues are hindering industry progress.
Lockington pointed out the ongoing shortage of skilled workers in the tourism sector and questioned the logic behind preventing over 6,000 Fijians preparing for overseas employment from working locally while they wait for opportunities abroad. She emphasized the pressing need for an additional 2,500 chefs, engineers, and service staff to support the expansion of more than 3,500 new hotel rooms planned across the country.
“Our industry is not just recruiting; we are continuously training and losing staff, increasing the financial strain on businesses already navigating high operational costs and bureaucratic delays,” Lockington noted. She urged the government to take decisive action to address these longstanding issues to support both the tourism sector and Fiji’s overall economy.
This situation echoes sentiments expressed by various stakeholders over the years about the tourism industry’s vital role in Fiji’s economic landscape. Over the past seven decades, tourism has evolved into a crucial economic driver, significantly contributing to the country’s GDP and employing thousands of Fijians.
In light of these challenges, the FHTA has consistently advocated for better training programs to align educational offerings with the skills required across various sectors, including tourism, manufacturing, and information technology. Notably, the association collaborates with government bodies to navigate regulatory obstacles and promote sustainable tourism.
Looking forward, the industry remains hopeful that by prioritizing regulatory reforms and enhancing local training programs, Fiji’s tourism sector will not only recover but evolve to meet the needs of an ever-changing global tourism landscape. The focus on addressing the labor crisis and investing in human capital could set the stage for a robust recovery and long-term sustainability in tourism, reaffirming its role as a pillar of Fiji’s economy.
The discussions surrounding labor shortages, the commitment to improving local training, and the need for regulatory updates underscore the collective desire for positive changes that could pave the way for a brighter future for Fiji’s tourism industry.
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