Approximately $1 to $2 billion is anticipated to flow into the economy over the next six to twelve months. This announcement was made by Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Minister for Tourism, Manoa Kamikamica, during the branding launch of the Kimaya Fiji Group and the reopening of Yatule Resort and Spa at Natadola Beach, Nadroga.
Kamikamica highlighted the significant impact of the tourism sector, suggesting that the country can look forward to promising times ahead. He noted, “It has caused more than a ripple effect across our economy, accounting for approximately 40 percent of GDP and continuing to grow.” He added that the tourism industry also positively influences other sectors, including agriculture.
According to Kamikamica, tourism is on the brink of a major breakthrough, poised for substantial growth.
Regarding investment prospects, a recent report indicated that Fiji’s domestic and foreign investment opportunities stand around $6 billion in total. The Deputy Prime Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering a conducive investment environment. “This includes streamlining processes, eliminating bottlenecks, and creating an enabling atmosphere to attract more investments into Fiji,” he stated.
During the reopening of Yatule Resort and Spa, Kamikamica praised the newly branded Kimaya Fiji Group for its contributions to the tourism sector in Fiji. Kimaya Group’s managing director, Damen Gounder, revealed that the resort underwent six months of renovations with an investment of $7 million. “We are ambitious, and growth is in our DNA; however, as a growing entity, we must continue to evolve,” he expressed. “We are taking a giant leap – a leap that signifies not just our company’s growth but the evolution of our brand and vision.”
Viliame Vodonaivalu, chief executive officer of the Fiji National Provident Fund, remarked that this reopening marks the beginning of a successful partnership with the Kimaya Group, which has been ongoing for nine years since 2015.