Deputy Prime Minister and Tourism Minister Viliame Gavoka reported that the World Surf League Corona Fiji Pro competition generated over $255,000 in media value for Tourism Fiji, resulting in 2,300 public relations hits worldwide, equivalent to more than $50.4 million in global advertising value across 36 countries.
This update was provided during a parliamentary session this week. Minister Gavoka highlighted the extensive media coverage, including live broadcasts and media engagement, which not only promoted the event but also showcased Fiji’s natural beauty and world-class surfing to millions of viewers globally.
He noted that the event was backed by major global brands such as Corona, Red Bull, Yeti, Shiseido, and Apple Watch, which greatly enhanced the visibility of the Fijian brand. He emphasized that the exposure gained is invaluable for the tourism sector.
In addition to the global media spotlight, Gavoka discussed the positive impact on local communities. He noted that the WSL rebuilt the Cloudbreak surf tower, which had been destroyed during Tropical Cyclone Harold in 2020, and that the tower, operational since the mid-1990s, will now be gifted to Tabanivono-i-Wai as a legacy asset for future rental opportunities.
He also acknowledged the cash contributions made to the villages of Nabila and Momi. Additionally, the event supported the Fiji Surfing Association and the local surfing community by providing a three-day women’s development program along with a water safety program.
Furthermore, a local surfer was granted a wildcard entry into the Fiji Pro Event, along with donations of cash and items to the Fiji Surfing Association.