Fiji can expect a rebound in Chinese tourists with the easing of restrictions in mainland China.
The People’s Republic of China’s Chargé d’Affaires and Political Counselor, Wang Xuguang made the statement during a courtesy visit to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka and the Assistant Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Alitia Bainivalu.
“Pre-COVID, China’s outbound market was near 150 million. With easing of our border restrictions, we can expect a rebound of Chinese tourists. The Embassy is ready to support this and the recovery of the Fiji economy. We hope Fiji will also provide facilitation for Chinese tourists,” said Mr Xuguang.
In acknowledging the People’s Republic of China’s support over the years and the resumption of travel, the Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viuliame Gavoka welcomed the Chinese Government’s announcement on its re-opening on January 8.
“We recognise the value of Chinese travellers as a growing global outbound market. Fiji received approx. 46,000 tourists per year pre-COVID and you’ve been one of our top 5 source markets. We want to grow this market further and stand ready to support marketing efforts through Tourism Fiji and Fiji Airways,” said Mr Gavoka.
He further expressed the Ministry’s intention to pursue further areas of mutual cooperation, including capacity building and training.
Mr Xuguang welcomed the ministers and said China, as a long standing bilateral partner of Fiji, wished to continue contributing to the Fiji economy and that the Chinese community in Fiji has today become an important part of the Fiji society.
This year will mark the 48th year of diplomatic relations between Fiji and the People’s Republic of China – built on the premise of mutual respect for sovereignty and co-operation.
