SPORTING events such as the Bayleys Fiji Coral Coast 7s serve as a good opportunity to market the country as a holiday destination, says Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.
He said apart from the obvious influx of tourists and spending from local fans, mega-events such as the Coral Coast 7s also helped in boosting interest in sport and the financial security it offered to talented young men and women who were lucky enough to obtain overseas contracts.
“With such events what you do get is a lot of people travelling to Fiji, spending a lot of foreign currency, staying at hotels, paying the environmental levy, service turnover tax and VAT,” he said.
“And it’s also good for the local economy at the same time with a lot of local produce being bought.
“It’s also an opportune time to sell Fiji as a destination. Some people come here to play rugby and decide to come again with their families for a visit or holiday.
“So we’d like to thank the organisers for this, in particular Jay Whyte and his team, for hosting such a world-class event.”
The A-G said Lawaqa Park was a good venue for the mega rugby competition and Sigatoka was also ideal in terms of accommodation facilities.
“The Coral Coast does offer the opportunity for people to stay in a range of accommodation. It has a broad room inventory and that is very critical. For any tournament to be successful, people need a place to stay.”
Police retained the Bayleys Fiji Coral Coast 7s Cup title after defeating Wardens 26-5 last Saturday.
More than 10,000 people including tourists and locals braved the heat to witness sevens rugby at its best over the three-day tournament.
