Tourism convention ends on a high note

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Lavenia Naivalu (second from left) with resource owners from Ba Province during the Third Fiji Tourism Convention at Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa, Denarau, Nadi. Pictures: BALJEET SINGH

The Third Fiji Tourism Convention concluded on a high note at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa on Nadi’s Denarau Island last week.

Hosted by the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, the event brought together tourism leaders across government, industry, communities, and development partners to shape the future of Fiji’s visitor economy.

Officiating at the opening of the two-day event, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka emphasisied tourism remained central to Fiji’s economy, supporting employment, enterprise development and livelihoods across our islands.

“However, the environment in which tourism operates today is more complex than ever before,” Mr Gavoka said.

“Global travel patterns are changing, visitor expectations are evolving, communities are more engaged and rightly seek a stronger voice, and climate and economic pressures continue to test the resilience of our systems.

“In this context, the Fiji Tourism Convention is not a ceremonial gathering. It is a strategic platform for alignment, bringing together policy direction, industry realities, and community priorities.

“It reflects the intent of the National Sustainable Tourism Framework 2024-2034, which calls for coordinated action, inclusive growth, and long-term sustainability across the sector.”