Government of the Republic of Fiji
Government of the Republic of Fiji
09/26/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/25/2024 18:54
MINISTER, MINISTER FOR TOURISM AND CIVIL AVIATION, HON. VILIAME GAVOKA’S SPEECH AT THE FIJI...
Vaviyagwane i na Were Levu i Navatulevu, na Viyagwane na Jui Nadi,
Betoraurau, Were Levu i Erenavula, na Viyagwane na Jui Sabeto,
Were Levu i Nalagi, na Viyagwane na Jui Nawaka,
Were Levu i Vunihei, na Viyagwane na Jui Vuda,
Were Levu i Louvaju i Nakuruvarua, na Viyagwane na
Kwa Levu na Jui Nadroga,
Na Vanua o Solevu, na Viyagwane na Jui Lawa,
Convention Chair, Michael Nacola,
Tourism Fiji Board Chair and Chief Executive Officer Fiji Airways, Andre Viljoen,
Chair, New Zealand Māori Tourism, Dale Stephens,
Senior Government Officials,
Members of the Organising Committee,
Esteemed Guest Speakers and Panellists,
Chief Executive Officers, General Managers,
The Tourism Family,
Our Official Event Partners, Tappoos, Fiji Airways and
Encore,
Ladies and Gentlemen.
Before we begin, may I ask that we take a moment to pay tribute to a man who contributed significantly to our tourism industry - Geoff Shaw. Geoff was a dear friend, to many of us. We remember him not only from the work he has done with Castaway, Outrigger - and so much more. He has held a number of industry directorships in Fiji including as Deputy Chairman of Tourism Fiji and Chairman of Airports Fiji and Chairman of the Mamanuca Environment Society.
May I ask that we take a minute of silence to remember his legacy.
Thank you.
I would like to begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land on which we stand today.
I pay my respects to their Chiefs past and present, as well as to emerging leaders.
It is my honour to welcome you to the 2024 Fiji Tourism Convention. If you are here again for a second year - welcome back.
I am not here as the Chief Guest or a Minister alone, but as a participant and a part of the tourism industry. Two years into Office, I still start my sentences with "You know in the private sector…"
Ladies and Gentlemen,
When I addressed you all at last year's Convention, we celebrated some of our victories such as our recovery. And we also spoke about how critical tourism is for us, our people, our jobs and our economy.
They say that sometimes we should tread carefully, not to celebrate prematurely. But sometimes it's okay to be proud of ourselves. Whether your sales increased, or adding to your fleet or even seeing new clients and customers.
Victory doesn't always have to be big. But nationally, we measure our performance as an industry collectively. So, let's take stock of where we are.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Last year, Fiji's tourism sector surpassed expectations having received a record 929,740 visitors who contributed FJ$3.3 billion to the visitor economy.
This marks a 4 per cent increase above pre-pandemic levels-a clear sign that our tourism industry is not only recovering but forging ahead stronger than ever.
I have personally seen the resilience, innovation, and dedication of everyone contributing to the growth of this industry.
From January to August 2024, we have already welcomed a total of 640,274 visitors. To reach 1 million visitors, we need about 90,000 per month.
As we look forward, it seems highly likely that Fiji could reach 1 million visitors by the end of 2024.
With July and August already surpassing that average, I am confident that through our continued efforts in marketing, air connectivity expansion, infrastructure development, and improvement and a strong commitment to sustainable tourism practices, we will hit-and possibly exceed-this goal.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Fiji has for decades now not supported an open skies policy given that in the South Pacific air traffic is marginal, and routes are long and thin.
But we are in a different place now. A better place and we are ready to take the next step.
The Fiji Government recognises the evolving dynamics in aviation and acknowledges the global trend towards liberalisation of air traffic rights.
So, we took a bold move in reviewing Fiji's Aviation Policy. We are now considering Open Skies on a Case-by-Case Basis. And we're doing so gradually, guided by national interests.
We can already see the benefits with the Dallas direct flight scheduled for the end of this year.
We're not only reaching new visitors in the US - but giving us access to and from Europe. That benefits all of us.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
On the national front, Fiji is experiencing significant progress. The mood is optimistic, and momentum is building.
Since our Conference last year, our Prime Minister, Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka, launched our Fiji National Sustainable Tourism Framework 2024-2034. This comprehensive roadmap outlines our vision for a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive tourism industry.
It is not just a plan for the next ten years but a promise to our people, our environment, and our partners. A promise that we will continue to lead the way in sustainable tourism practices. That is why you will see we have adopted these themes for the Panel.
Just last week, we unveiled our 2025-2029 National Development Plan, along with Vision 2050. And over the weekend, we launched the USD$200 million Na Vualiku Project and opened our Office in Savusavu.
I had given my reassurance that we will establish two platforms, one with the private sector and one with the civil society organisations so that we do this collectively. And this week, our first ever Foreign Policy White Paper was rolled out.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
At the heart of these strategies is the understanding that we cannot do this alone. Public-private partnership is essential to our success, and we are committed to working closely with you to drive our future.
The Government's role is to create an enabling environment, but it is the collaboration with the private sector that will propel us forward.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Alongside the huge work that is being done in fixing the economy, considerable progress has also been made in the social and political fronts.
In June, Cabinet approved the Counter Narcotics Strategy 2023-2028, and the National HIV Surge Strategy for 2024-2027 was approved this month.
More resources are being invested in law and order including the Fiji Police Force Reset programme and the strengthening of the independence of our judiciary and related agencies.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
On Friday this week, we will be commemorating World Tourism Day and the theme this year is "Tourism and Peace". Quite fitting with everything happening around the world.
Here at home, we are making strong efforts to create harmony amongst all our people and address the injustices of our political past.
The truth and reconciliation process has also gained momentum. Granted, this approach is fraught with difficulties, and there are many roadblocks along the way.
However, candid and frank truth telling is a journey that Fiji must take if we are to right the wrongs of the past and acknowledge the rights and aspirations of all who call Fiji home.
Only through this process can Fiji continue to become a safer and more harmonious place for all.
I echo the sentiments of Prime Minister, when he assured all our communities that there is nothing to worry about. True democracy is back in the country, and we the citizens of Fiji are free, happy and safe.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
But there are other risks we must face as an industry and as a nation. Loss of skills. I am glad operators like Marriott International having their Fiji Training Academy and Fiji Airways Aviation Academy contribute to retention of their skilled workforce.
We also have here with us institutions like Fiji National University, Polytech and Service Pro - all of whom are important partners of Government in giving access to education and training.
For Tourism, it is not only about stemming the brain drain, but ensuring we can quickly fill gaps. Under Government, we have a Growth Reset Committee with some private sector representatives who are in this room - dedicated to fast tracking our immigration challenges.
And I am pleased to share, that we have now automated our permit processes - now live on the Immi Hub. This focuses on visa and permits which will lead to significant improvements. And we can expect more positive changes to our business environment.
As we speak, Deputy Prime Minister Hon Kamikamica is launching today the Start a Business Subsystem (SABs). This is a component of the BusinessNOW Fiji Project that is looking to integrate over 16 Government agencies into a single digital platform.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
You will see there are some new faces here that we wouldn't ordinarily see at our typical tourism gathering.
When I was appraised by my team on the attendance, I was very happy to see more interest and so many friends register this year. But there were some stakeholders I felt needed to be here.
Our banks, people outside of Viti Levu, our resource owners - they are all as equally important in the tourism equation.
So please, I urge that we use this space well. We have a very esteemed list of key speakers and panelists.
We also have among us key Government agencies. Raise your concerns, make your contributions and ask the questions that need to be asked.
As you have heard from the Chair, we should have concrete outputs to bring back at the next Convention. Tomorrow is another important part of the Convention as we host a workshop on a possible new legislation for tourism as well as the introduction of sustainable tourism standards.
I want to be clear that when we move forward with anything, we should move forward together.
Just like this year's Convention theme "Tourism Together". So, we value your attendance and contribution. We will of course also be celebrating World Tourism Day tomorrow.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
As I conclude, I am filled with optimism. We have come a long way, and together, we have built a strong foundation for the future. But now is not the time to rest. Now is the time to accelerate our efforts and take bold steps to ensure that Fiji remains a leader in sustainable tourism.
I call upon each of you-our industry leaders, stakeholders, and partners-to continue working with us, and to inspire.
The world is watching, and we have an incredible opportunity to show that Fiji is not just a destination, but a beacon of hope, sustainability, and resilience.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone, our Panel, Speakers, Participants. A special thanks again to our partners, Tappoos, Fiji Airways and Encore. I hope next year I will have a longer list of partners to thank.
Vinaka vakalevu and thank you!
Betoraurau, Were Levu i Erenavula, na Viyagwane na Jui Sabeto,
Were Levu i Nalagi, na Viyagwane na Jui Nawaka,
Were Levu i Vunihei, na Viyagwane na Jui Vuda,
Were Levu i Louvaju i Nakuruvarua, na Viyagwane na
Kwa Levu na Jui Nadroga,
Na Vanua o Solevu, na Viyagwane na Jui Lawa,
Convention Chair, Michael Nacola,
Tourism Fiji Board Chair and Chief Executive Officer Fiji Airways, Andre Viljoen,
Chair, New Zealand Māori Tourism, Dale Stephens,
Senior Government Officials,
Members of the Organising Committee,
Esteemed Guest Speakers and Panellists,
Chief Executive Officers, General Managers,
The Tourism Family,
Our Official Event Partners, Tappoos, Fiji Airways and
Encore,
Ladies and Gentlemen.
Before we begin, may I ask that we take a moment to pay tribute to a man who contributed significantly to our tourism industry - Geoff Shaw. Geoff was a dear friend, to many of us. We remember him not only from the work he has done with Castaway, Outrigger - and so much more. He has held a number of industry directorships in Fiji including as Deputy Chairman of Tourism Fiji and Chairman of Airports Fiji and Chairman of the Mamanuca Environment Society.
May I ask that we take a minute of silence to remember his legacy.
Thank you.
I would like to begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land on which we stand today.
I pay my respects to their Chiefs past and present, as well as to emerging leaders.
It is my honour to welcome you to the 2024 Fiji Tourism Convention. If you are here again for a second year - welcome back.
I am not here as the Chief Guest or a Minister alone, but as a participant and a part of the tourism industry. Two years into Office, I still start my sentences with "You know in the private sector…"
Ladies and Gentlemen,
When I addressed you all at last year's Convention, we celebrated some of our victories such as our recovery. And we also spoke about how critical tourism is for us, our people, our jobs and our economy.
They say that sometimes we should tread carefully, not to celebrate prematurely. But sometimes it's okay to be proud of ourselves. Whether your sales increased, or adding to your fleet or even seeing new clients and customers.
Victory doesn't always have to be big. But nationally, we measure our performance as an industry collectively. So, let's take stock of where we are.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Last year, Fiji's tourism sector surpassed expectations having received a record 929,740 visitors who contributed FJ$3.3 billion to the visitor economy.
This marks a 4 per cent increase above pre-pandemic levels-a clear sign that our tourism industry is not only recovering but forging ahead stronger than ever.
I have personally seen the resilience, innovation, and dedication of everyone contributing to the growth of this industry.
From January to August 2024, we have already welcomed a total of 640,274 visitors. To reach 1 million visitors, we need about 90,000 per month.
As we look forward, it seems highly likely that Fiji could reach 1 million visitors by the end of 2024.
With July and August already surpassing that average, I am confident that through our continued efforts in marketing, air connectivity expansion, infrastructure development, and improvement and a strong commitment to sustainable tourism practices, we will hit-and possibly exceed-this goal.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Fiji has for decades now not supported an open skies policy given that in the South Pacific air traffic is marginal, and routes are long and thin.
But we are in a different place now. A better place and we are ready to take the next step.
The Fiji Government recognises the evolving dynamics in aviation and acknowledges the global trend towards liberalisation of air traffic rights.
So, we took a bold move in reviewing Fiji's Aviation Policy. We are now considering Open Skies on a Case-by-Case Basis. And we're doing so gradually, guided by national interests.
We can already see the benefits with the Dallas direct flight scheduled for the end of this year.
We're not only reaching new visitors in the US - but giving us access to and from Europe. That benefits all of us.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
On the national front, Fiji is experiencing significant progress. The mood is optimistic, and momentum is building.
Since our Conference last year, our Prime Minister, Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka, launched our Fiji National Sustainable Tourism Framework 2024-2034. This comprehensive roadmap outlines our vision for a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive tourism industry.
It is not just a plan for the next ten years but a promise to our people, our environment, and our partners. A promise that we will continue to lead the way in sustainable tourism practices. That is why you will see we have adopted these themes for the Panel.
Just last week, we unveiled our 2025-2029 National Development Plan, along with Vision 2050. And over the weekend, we launched the USD$200 million Na Vualiku Project and opened our Office in Savusavu.
I had given my reassurance that we will establish two platforms, one with the private sector and one with the civil society organisations so that we do this collectively. And this week, our first ever Foreign Policy White Paper was rolled out.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
At the heart of these strategies is the understanding that we cannot do this alone. Public-private partnership is essential to our success, and we are committed to working closely with you to drive our future.
The Government's role is to create an enabling environment, but it is the collaboration with the private sector that will propel us forward.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Alongside the huge work that is being done in fixing the economy, considerable progress has also been made in the social and political fronts.
In June, Cabinet approved the Counter Narcotics Strategy 2023-2028, and the National HIV Surge Strategy for 2024-2027 was approved this month.
More resources are being invested in law and order including the Fiji Police Force Reset programme and the strengthening of the independence of our judiciary and related agencies.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
On Friday this week, we will be commemorating World Tourism Day and the theme this year is "Tourism and Peace". Quite fitting with everything happening around the world.
Here at home, we are making strong efforts to create harmony amongst all our people and address the injustices of our political past.
The truth and reconciliation process has also gained momentum. Granted, this approach is fraught with difficulties, and there are many roadblocks along the way.
However, candid and frank truth telling is a journey that Fiji must take if we are to right the wrongs of the past and acknowledge the rights and aspirations of all who call Fiji home.
Only through this process can Fiji continue to become a safer and more harmonious place for all.
I echo the sentiments of Prime Minister, when he assured all our communities that there is nothing to worry about. True democracy is back in the country, and we the citizens of Fiji are free, happy and safe.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
But there are other risks we must face as an industry and as a nation. Loss of skills. I am glad operators like Marriott International having their Fiji Training Academy and Fiji Airways Aviation Academy contribute to retention of their skilled workforce.
We also have here with us institutions like Fiji National University, Polytech and Service Pro - all of whom are important partners of Government in giving access to education and training.
For Tourism, it is not only about stemming the brain drain, but ensuring we can quickly fill gaps. Under Government, we have a Growth Reset Committee with some private sector representatives who are in this room - dedicated to fast tracking our immigration challenges.
And I am pleased to share, that we have now automated our permit processes - now live on the Immi Hub. This focuses on visa and permits which will lead to significant improvements. And we can expect more positive changes to our business environment.
As we speak, Deputy Prime Minister Hon Kamikamica is launching today the Start a Business Subsystem (SABs). This is a component of the BusinessNOW Fiji Project that is looking to integrate over 16 Government agencies into a single digital platform.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
You will see there are some new faces here that we wouldn't ordinarily see at our typical tourism gathering.
When I was appraised by my team on the attendance, I was very happy to see more interest and so many friends register this year. But there were some stakeholders I felt needed to be here.
Our banks, people outside of Viti Levu, our resource owners - they are all as equally important in the tourism equation.
So please, I urge that we use this space well. We have a very esteemed list of key speakers and panelists.
We also have among us key Government agencies. Raise your concerns, make your contributions and ask the questions that need to be asked.
As you have heard from the Chair, we should have concrete outputs to bring back at the next Convention. Tomorrow is another important part of the Convention as we host a workshop on a possible new legislation for tourism as well as the introduction of sustainable tourism standards.
I want to be clear that when we move forward with anything, we should move forward together.
Just like this year's Convention theme "Tourism Together". So, we value your attendance and contribution. We will of course also be celebrating World Tourism Day tomorrow.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
As I conclude, I am filled with optimism. We have come a long way, and together, we have built a strong foundation for the future. But now is not the time to rest. Now is the time to accelerate our efforts and take bold steps to ensure that Fiji remains a leader in sustainable tourism.
I call upon each of you-our industry leaders, stakeholders, and partners-to continue working with us, and to inspire.
The world is watching, and we have an incredible opportunity to show that Fiji is not just a destination, but a beacon of hope, sustainability, and resilience.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone, our Panel, Speakers, Participants. A special thanks again to our partners, Tappoos, Fiji Airways and Encore. I hope next year I will have a longer list of partners to thank.
Vinaka vakalevu and thank you!