Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka intends to prop up tourist numbers in the short term, in order to jump-start Fiji’s economy.
The Deputy Prime Minister also stressed the importance of the tourism and aviation sectors as key conduits to economic prosperity.
He said tourism contributes almost 40 per cent of Fiji Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and over the next couple of years; we will grow the tourism industry.
“We will look at tourism to prop-up Fiji’s economy in the short term. So Tourism is where the country is hoping to accelerate economic growth. And I’m confident we can do it. We have good inventory — sufficient to keep at the level we want. And of course our software — human resource — are our best assets.”
He said branding is pivotal, and that Fiji is well positioned to capitalise on its brand as a tourist destination.
“Branding can sometimes be a matter of words. But for us in Fiji — you can see it even from the streets. It’s spontaneous and natural and a very big part of our identity.”
“It’s wonderful to see the Tourism and Civil Aviation portfolios coming together after over a decade. It’s a natural fit, and we will re-source Tourism Fiji and this Ministry. I know from what I have seen over the last couple of days that we are up for it,” he added.
Permanent Secretary for Tourism Shaheen Ali said the Ministry is committed to the travel and tourism sector as a key pillar of the Fiji economy.
“While we endeavour to capitalise on other service sectors like finance and business process outsourcing, tourism will be the mainstay of our economy in the near future. We are a small team, who I’m sure under your guidance, will grow. And I can assure you of our support and commitment over the coming years, as we look to take our country forward,” Ali said.
