Fiji recorded more than three million border movements between January last year and last month.
Citing figures tabled in Parliament, Immigration Minister Viliame Naupoto said the figures showed a steady resurgence in cross border movement.
“The total crossing into Fiji stood at 1,682,729, driven largely by tourists, returning residents, migrant workers and students,” Mr Naupoto said.
“Movement out of Fiji total 1,678,897. So, a little over three million movements across our borders.”
While the increase in cross-border activity was a positive sign of post-COVID recovery, Mr Naupoto said they also underscored the strain placed on Fiji’s aging immigration systems, particularly at airports and key entry points.
“This surging demand and movement have placed additional pressure on our systems and resources, reinforcing the urgent need to modernise and invest in digital and operational infrastructure.
“As we navigate a rapidly changing global and regional landscape, the way we manage the movement of people across our borders must be strategic, humane and forward looking.
“Migration is not merely a movement of people. It is a movement of opportunity, of skills, of families and of hope, and it is our solemn responsibility to ensure this movement is safe, orderly and beneficial to our nation.”
Mr Naupoto said Fiji’s immigration governance is anchored by the Immigration Act 2003, supported by various policies and regulations.
He adds the review of this Act is currently in its final stages.
