The tourism sector is facing a significant hurdle due to the sale and use of illegal drugs, according to Damend Gounder, managing director of Yatule Resort and Spa/Tour Managers Fiji Group. He made these comments during the reopening of the renovated resort in Natadola, Sigatoka, on Monday.
Gounder expressed concern that the frequent reports of drug-related incidents involving individuals in the community could have repercussions for the tourism industry. He warned that if illegal drug availability and use infiltrate the sector, Fiji might lose its appeal to those seeking honeymoon destinations, family vacations, or schoolies retreats.
He urged stakeholders in the tourism industry to engage with communities and schools to promote positive values and education as a means of addressing these challenges. Gounder emphasized their commitment to education, stating, “Our ambitions are not solely commercial; we are deeply committed to corporate social responsibility, particularly in education and the environment.”
Brent Hill, CEO of Tourism Fiji, remarked that while the issue largely falls under police jurisdiction, the tourism sector remains alert to drug-related activities. He noted the importance of a safe environment for visitors, stressing that drug activities have no place in tourism and that they support government initiatives aimed at combating these issues.
Livai Driu, Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, confirmed the receipt of reports related to tourists involved in drug offenses. He emphasized the importance of information sharing among hoteliers and highlighted a disconnect in communication within the industry, stating, “The sharing of information is very important to us, and the responsibility lies with hotel owners and industry stakeholders.”